What is the primary purpose of occlusal registration?

The primary purpose of occlusal registration is to record the relationship between the dental arches, specifically the maxilla (upper arch) and mandible (lower arch). This process is critical in dentistry, especially in procedures involving the fitting of dental restorations or prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Accurate occlusal records ensure that the occlusion, or the way the upper and lower teeth come together, is properly aligned and functional, which is essential for patient comfort, proper chewing function, and overall oral health.

This process involves capturing the patient's bite and can be achieved using various materials or techniques, including bite registrations or impressions. The resulting information helps dental professionals plan and execute treatments that respect and maintain the natural relationship of the teeth and jaws.

Identifying tooth decay, assessing periodontal health, and measuring cavity depths are important aspects of dental care, but they do not directly pertain to the function of occlusal registration. Each of these activities serves different diagnostic or therapeutic purposes within dental practice.