What does “Occlusal trauma” mean?
Occlusal trauma refers to damage to supporting tissues, such as the periodontal ligament, associated with forces applied to teeth. Tooth mobility or discomfort on chewing alone does not establish the diagnosis; other causes must be distinguished.
What is assessed?
Tooth movement, the bite, and the periodontal ligament space on radiographs are assessed together. Similar findings can occur with inflammation or other problems, so differential assessment is needed.
Does it cause periodontitis?
There is no basis for concluding that occlusal forces alone cause periodontal attachment loss in humans. Periodontitis and bite problems are assessed separately, and plaque and inflammation control must not be omitted.
How is it managed?
Remaining periodontal support, symptoms, and the bite are assessed to select the necessary care. Immediately grinding or extracting a tooth simply because it is mobile is not an appropriate decision process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a high bite always cause loss of bone around the teeth?
Force-related problems and inflammatory loss of supporting tissue cannot be described as the same phenomenon. Examinations assess their respective effects.
Are notches at the neck of a tooth also occlusal trauma?
Cervical tissue loss cannot be attributed to occlusal forces alone. Other factors, such as an acidic environment and friction, are also assessed.
Questions about occlusal trauma
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Is mobility increasing?
Explanation and evidenceChanges, symptoms, and imaging findings are assessed alongside current mobility.
American Academy of Periodontology / European Federation of Periodontology · 2017 World Workshop Consensus Report Workgroup 3 - A choice suited to your condition
Is there inflammation, and what is the condition of the supporting tissues?
Explanation and evidencePeriodontal disease is examined separately and the necessary care is planned.
National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research · Periodontal Gum Disease
