Occlusal traumatism-its pathological effects and diagnosis

The pathological effects of occlusal disturbances may be seen in the temporomandibular articulation and related musculature and in certain periodontal tissues. Periodontal traumatism may be primary or secondary. The treatment of primary traumatism usually requires only changes in the force applied on a tooth; treatment of secondary traumatism requires many procedures, sometimes including permanent splinting. Occlusal overloading is not an etiological factor in gingivitis, gingival hyperplasia, or pocket formation, and ordinarily will not cause gingival recession, gingival clefts or resorption of the alveolar crest.