Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
In bilaterally balanced articulation for complete dentures, if the mandible shifts to the LEFT during closure (left = working side), which contact pattern helps maintain balance on the RIGHT (non-working/balancing) side?
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Correct answer: A. Buccal cusps of the maxillary (upper) posterior teeth contact the buccal cusps of the mandibular (lower) posterior teeth on the balancing side
In classic bilateral balanced occlusion, the non-working (balancing) side is designed to maintain simultaneous contact — typically the buccal cusp of the maxillary tooth contacting the buccal cusp incline of the mandibular tooth — so that forces are distributed across both sides of the denture rather than tipping it off the working side.
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