Non-Working Side Contacts — NDEB AFK MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateDental Anatomy & OcclusionNon-Working Side ContactsNDEB AFK

During a lateral excursion in canine-guided occlusion, which teeth should ideally be in contact on the non-working (balancing) side?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — No teeth should contact on the non-working side

In canine-guided (canine-protected) occlusion, during a lateral excursion the canines on the working side contact and immediately disocclude all other teeth — including all teeth on the non-working (balancing) side. Non-working side contacts are considered potentially destructive as they create lateral forces on posterior teeth without the proprioceptive protection of the canine. Elimination of non-working side interferences is a key goal of occlusal adjustment.

Reference: Okeson – Management of Temporomandibular Disorders, 8th ed., 2019