The mandibular posterior tooth that has no contact with any maxillary teeth during the balancing occlusion is:
- A. First bicuspid.***
- B. Second bicuspid.
- C. First molar.
- D. Second molar.
The statement is A. First bicuspid.
Here's why:
- During balancing occlusion, the mandible shifts slightly to the side opposite the chewing side. This brings the working side teeth into contact, while the non-working side (balancing side) experiences minimal or no contact between the upper and lower teeth.
- The first bicuspid (mandible) is positioned in the most posterior region of the non-working side in most individuals. This means it is typically the furthest tooth away from any potential contact with the maxillary teeth during balancing occlusion.
- The second bicuspid, first molar, and second molar are progressively positioned more anteriorly on the non-working side. Therefore, they have a higher chance of contacting the maxillary teeth, depending on individual jaw anatomy and occlusion patterns.
Therefore, based on the principle of balancing occlusion and tooth positioning, the first bicuspid is the most likely mandibular posterior tooth to have no contact with any maxillary teeth during this phase.
