Occlusal disease management system: the diagnosis process.

The goal of every dentist is to preserve the health of his or her patients' masticatory system, as well as to anticipate the long-term results when restorative treatment is provided. These goals cannot be accomplished in the presence of occlusal disease. During the routine oral examination, the signs and/or symptoms of occlusal disease must be noted and the patient educated about the need for further diagnosis and treatment. Better care can be provided to patients if occlusal disease and/or temporomandibular disorders are detected early and properly treated. Treating occlusal disease can lead to a long, healthy life of the dentition as well as to restorative success.