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Occlusal Trauma

Periodontal injury from excessive occlusal forces causing tooth mobility, ligament widening and discomfort.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Occlusal Trauma?

Occlusal trauma is defined as injury to the attachment apparatus of the tooth — the periodontal ligament (PDL), cementum, and alveolar bone — resulting from excessive masticatory or parafunctional occlusal forces. It is classified as primary occlusal trauma (excessive forces on a healthy periodontium) or secondary occlusal trauma (normal forces on a periodontium with reduced support, typically due to periodontitis).

Etiology includes parafunctional habits (bruxism, clenching), high restoration or crown, tooth migration, periodontitis-induced bone loss, malocclusion (crossbite, deep bite), and orthodontic treatment with excessive force. Histologically, PDL widens, alveolar bone shows signs of resorption and apposition, root resorption may occur, and pulpal changes (pulpitis, calcific changes) can develop.

Clinical signs include increasing tooth mobility, fremitus on occlusion, widening of periodontal ligament space and crater-shaped bone defects on radiographs, hypersensitivity to thermal and mechanical stimuli, attrition or fracture of the tooth, and TMJ symptoms. Treatment includes occlusal adjustment to remove premature contacts, occlusal splints (night guards) for parafunctional habits, restoration replacement, periodontal therapy with maintenance, and orthodontic correction. Splinting may stabilize mobile teeth in periodontitis. Resolution is monitored by reduction in mobility and PDL space normalization radiographically.

Symptoms

Increasing tooth mobility
Sensitivity to occlusal pressure
Fremitus on biting
Widened PDL space on radiograph
Tooth migration or drifting
Pulpitis-like pain
TMJ pain or jaw fatigue

Risk Factors

Bruxism or clenching
Periodontitis with bone loss
High or interfering restoration
Malocclusion (deep bite, crossbite)
Orthodontic appliances with excessive force
Tooth loss with drifting and tilting
Heavy occlusal habits

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New or worsening tooth mobility
  • Pain on chewing
  • Sensitivity to bite pressure
  • Cracked tooth syndrome
  • Recurrent periodontal abscess
  • Bruxism with morning jaw pain

Treatment Methods

01
Occlusal adjustment of premature contacts
02
Night guard or occlusal splint for bruxism
03
Restoration replacement to correct occlusion
04
Periodontal therapy and maintenance
05
Orthodontic correction of malocclusion
06
Tooth splinting for severe mobility
07
Endodontic therapy if pulpal involvement

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.