Biologic laws governing functions of muscles that move the mandible. Part I. Occlusal programming.

Many factors, other than the proprioceptive inputs originating from occlusal contacts of teeth, program jaw position and the functions of the muscles that move the mandible. However, once the mechanism by which specific occlusal contacts program specific muscle functions is clearly understood, it becomes a relatively simple matter to make an accurate diagnosis and select the most direct approach to treatment. This article is Part I of a series presented in four parts on the "Biologic Laws Governing Functions of Muscles That Move the Mandible."