Evaluation of eccentric occlusal contacts in complete dentures.

Three edentulous patients were evaluated using the kinesiograph and a specially designed computer program to identify the length of eccentric contacts between their dentures when masticating test foods. Three different interchangeable occlusal arrangements were constructed and tested. Results of the evaluation of more than 1,400 chewing cycles showed that while 25% of masticatory contacts were eccentric, the great majority of contacts were within a distance of 1 mm from centric occlusion. More eccentric contacts occurred in the opening phase than might be expected. Posterior tooth form did not appear to affect the range of eccentric contacts.