JBR Journal of Interdisciplinary Medicine and Dental Science
Open Access

Abstract

There are basic uncertainties and existing erroneous thoughts regarding the perception of increasing the occlusal vertical dimension. All treatment procedures in dentistry revolve around a few basic, firm set of laws. Establishing the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) to the pre-treatment levels is been accepted over the years. It is advocated that any alteration in the OVD during restorative procedures is unsafe to the stomatognathic system. But as an exemption, the OVD is increased or altered in full occlusal rehabilitation for gaining space for the planned restorations. Currently, contradicting opinions exist regarding the justification, validity and applicability of the procedure. This article analyzes the indications, principles, methods, functional adaptation and the effects of altering the OVD. It is ascertained that restoring OVD to original level rather than increasing is needed and patient�s response should be tested during each stage of increase in OVD. By exploring the various controversies and myths regarding vertical dimension and its alteration, discarding the erroneous beliefs and accepting the essentials, two logical hypotheses can be arrived, they are: 1. OVD is not altered following tooth wear (except in case of amelogenesis/dentinogenesis imperfecta). Any method to restore OVD will result in increased OVD 2. Free way space can be manipulated and new Vertical Dimension at Rest will get established if OVD is not increased beyond pre-existing rest position. The decisive statement that can be made from the above deductions is that OVD is almost always preserved. For better outcome, it is advisable to proceed with the existing OVD in excessively worn dentitions.

Biography

Kubra Yildiz has completed her dental graduation at the age of 22 years from Marmara University and from that date on making her PhD at the Prosthodontics Department of Marmara University.

Email: kubrayildiz1@hotmail.com