OCCLUSAL TRAUMA Meaning and
Definition
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Occlusal trauma is a dental condition characterized by excessive or abnormal forces being placed on the teeth during biting, chewing, or teeth grinding (bruxism). It refers to the damage or injury caused to the teeth, surrounding tissues, and supporting structures as a result of these abnormal forces. These forces can be greater than what the teeth and jaw are designed to withstand, leading to various problems.
When occlusal trauma occurs, it can cause several symptoms and negative effects. These may include tooth mobility, tooth fractures or chips, jaw pain or soreness, muscle fatigue, headaches, and even tooth loss in severe cases. Additionally, occlusal trauma can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and damage to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull.
There are several factors that can contribute to occlusal trauma, such as malocclusion (misalignment of the teeth), missing teeth, dental restorations (e.g., crowns or bridges) that do not fit properly, bruxism, or habits like nail biting or chewing on hard objects. It can also be caused by certain dental treatments that alter the natural occlusion.
Treatment for occlusal trauma typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include orthodontic treatment to correct malocclusion, replacing ill-fitting dental restorations, managing bruxism through the use of mouth guards or other interventions, and addressing any contributing habits. If the trauma has caused significant damage, additional dental treatments, such as crowns, bridges, or even tooth extraction may be necessary to restore oral health and function.
Overall, occlusal trauma is a condition that results from excessive or abnormal forces on the teeth, causing various symptoms and damage to the oral structures. Tim
Etymology of OCCLUSAL TRAUMA
The word "occlusal trauma" is derived from two components: "occlusal" and "trauma".
1. "Occlusal" comes from the Latin word "occludere", which means "to shut" or "to close". In dentistry, it refers to the interaction between the upper and lower teeth when they come into contact during biting or chewing. The occlusal surface of a tooth is the part that contacts the opposing teeth.
2. "Trauma" originates from the Greek word "trauma" meaning "wound" or "injury". It refers to any damage or injury caused by an external force or event.
Therefore, "occlusal trauma" refers to injury or damage to the teeth, supporting structures, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) caused by the excessive or abnormal forces that occur during occlusion or the act of biting and chewing.
