When you hear the word occlusion, what do you think about? Teeth coming together, TMD (temporomandibular disorders), a philosophy(s), or are you just plain confused? Unfortunately, many of our colleagues are unclear as to what occlusion means to them or more importantly, what it means for their patients. What might appear at first to be a complex topic, especially with the abundance of apparently conflicting theories and treatments, once simplified to the essential elements, is in reality, fairly straightforward. The essential elements "The Basic Rules of" and this Program is dedicated to the outlining of these elements.

The Basic Rules of Occlusion outlines an evidenced-based practical approach to the understanding and implementation of occlusal therapy in everyday practice. Whether a dental generalist, dental specialist (prosthodontist, orthodontist, periodontist, endodontist, oral surgeon, orofacial pain practitioner), denturist or dental technician, The Basic Rules of Occlusion sooner or later will apply clinically as dental practitioners facilitate stomatognathic stability. An understanding of these Basic Rules will enhance all aspects of dental practitioner practice for the benefit of all the stakeholders.  

• Educational Objectives, Learn About:
  Evidence-based not evidence-biased dentistry: what it is and is not
• Occlusion: when, what, how
• Occlusion for everyday dentistry
• Occlusion for major restorative dentistry
• Occlusion and implant therapy
• Occlusion for fixed and removable prosthodontics
• Occlusion for orthodontics
• Occlusion and TMD: is there a link?
• CR: where, when, who’s?
• Myocentric as a treatment position
• Vertical dimension assessment
• Occlusion and practical dental anatomy
• Occlusion and facially generated treatment planning
• Smile design and occlusal stabilization
• Envelope of function evaluation and maintenance
• Articulator/imaging use: when, what, how
• Orthotics: predictable usage
• Restorative and prosthodontic material selection