Significance of occlusion in the etiology and treatment of early, moderate, and advanced periodontitis.

Elimination of lesions diagnostic of trauma from occlusion is an essential part of complete periodontal therapy and restoration of health in the masticatory system for such patients. This can be achieved by orthodontic treatment, temporary splinting, bite-planes, occlusal adjustment and permanent splinting of teeth. Occlusal therapy may be required during periodontal treatment for trauma from occlusion and to enhance occlusal stability at any stage of periodontitis, but is most often needed in advanced periodontitis. Splinting of hypermobility of self-limiting trauma from occlusion is not indicated. Splinting may be required in addition to occlusal adjustment in moderate to severe periodontitis when trauma from occlusion is progressive.