Pathophysiology of occlusal balance.

Functional disturbances of the masticatory system reflect a failure in the adaptive capacity of the individual to excessive structural and functional demands. Formerly, a particular type of articulation, balanced occlusion, was thought necessary for maintaining the health of the dental apparatus. Over the years the concept of stability of occlusion has evolved, however controversy still exists as to where stable tooth contact is made, centric occlusion of centric jaw relation. In order to express biological adaptability within the normal masticatory system, harmony at the anatomical median occlusal position is suggested as the prerequisite of a physiologically balanced occlusion.