The influence of occlusal morphology on occlusion time.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess how the morphology of the occlusal surfaces of premolars and molars influenced the occlusion time in a mixed gender group of young adults with full natural dentition.

METHODS: Fifty healthy volunteers with Angle's Class I occlusion were included in the study. After clinical examination, the alginate impressions of both arches were taken, and plaster casts were prepared. To assess the morphology of lateral teeth, the digital models were measured. Occlusal analysis was performed with the T-Scan® III to assess occlusion time.

RESULTS: A direct correlation was found between the cusp distance for the first upper premolar and occlusion time (r = -0.29, p<0.05) and the distance between distal buccal and distal lingual cusps of the first lower premolar and occlusion time (r = 0.33, p<0.05). The parameters that had their impact on occlusion time were the opening angle of lingual cusps for the lower molars and the furrow angle of aperture between cusps for first upper premolar.

DISCUSSION: Occlusal surface morphologies of premolars may have direct impact on occlusion time. However, anterior guidance parameters and morphologies of molars could also influence the time teeth are in contact coming to maximal intercuspation.