Scott Nakamura, DMD
Subject: 180 Occlusion 
Credits: 2
Method: Lecture
Tuesday, Oct. 15: 7–9 p.m. CDT
Audience: Dentists
Fee: $37.50 (students and residents); $75 (members); $125 (nonmembers)

Description

“Posterior bite collapse” has been described as a clinical syndrome with multiple etiologic factors, where the loss of posterior occlusal support potentially leads to the breakdown of the functional protective capacity of the entire dentition, often resulting in more tooth loss, increasing fremitus/mobility, secondary occlusal trauma, flaring of the anterior teeth and loss of occlusal vertical dimension. Unfortunately, since its inception and because this is a broadly encompassing diagnosis, posterior bite collapse has taken on different, often erroneous, interpretations over the years. The goal of this presentation is to not only re-examine the original definition of the term and elucidate the multiple clinical manifestations of posterior bite collapse, but also provide further clarification based upon firsthand interactions. Additionally, this presentation will explain a new grading system for diagnosing posterior bite collapse. Treatment guidelines for restoring bite collapse will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives 

1. Understand occlusion and posterior bite collapse.
2. Identify various clinical manifestations and etiological factors of bite collapse.
3. Provide a classification for bite collapse within the context of periodontitis as well as treatment guidelines.

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Speaker Bio  

Scott Nakamura, DMD, received his DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where he later continued in the postgraduate programs of periodontics and periodontal-prosthesis. He is currently in private practice in Exton, Pennsylvania, as well as serving as part-time clinical associate professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, he serves on the advisory board of the hygiene and dental assisting programs at Harcum College as well as the dental assisting program at the Delaware County Technical School and the Expanded Function Dental Assistant All-State Career School.