The word "occlusal" is a dental term used to describe the surface of teeth in contact with each other during closing of the jaw. The spelling of "occlusal" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which represents speech sounds. In IPA, "occlusal" is pronounced as /əˈkluːzəl/, with the stressed syllable being "klu". The "oc" at the beginning is pronounced as "uh" or "uhk", and the "s" in the middle is pronounced as "z". The final "al" is pronounced as "uhl".
Occlusal is an adjective that refers to anything related to the occlusion, the way in which the upper and lower teeth fit together when the jaw is closed. It specifically refers to the surface or position of teeth that come into contact during biting or chewing.
In dentistry, occlusal refers to the aspects concerning the biting surface of the teeth. Dentists use this term to describe the way the teeth meet when the mouth is closed. The occlusal surface typically refers to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars, which experience the most force during chewing. These surfaces have ridges and grooves that help capture and break down food.
Occlusal problems or malocclusions occur when there is a misalignment of the teeth or jaw. This could include issues such as an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or crowded teeth. Dentists and orthodontists use various treatments and techniques to correct occlusal problems and restore proper alignment.
In dental restorations, occlusal refers to the part of a dental prosthesis or crown that comes into contact with the opposing teeth. It is essential that these occlusal surfaces are carefully designed and adjusted to ensure proper bite and chewing function.
Overall, occlusal relates to the way the teeth fit together and the function of the biting surfaces, playing a vital role in dental health and occlusion corrections.
That which occludes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "occlusal" is derived from the Latin word "occlusio", which means "a closing" or "shutting". It is related to the verb "occludere", which means "to close" or "shut tightly". In dentistry, "occlusal" refers to the surfaces of the teeth that come into contact when closing the jaw.