Mandibular Rest Position — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: A — The position when the mandible is completely relaxed with the teeth apart by 2-4 mm (freeway space)
The mandibular rest position (postural position) is the position of the mandible when the head is upright and the muscles of mastication are in minimal tonic contraction, resulting in the mandible being suspended with the teeth slightly apart. The distance between the occlusal surfaces in this position is the freeway space (interocclusal rest space), normally 2-4 mm. It is determined by the balance between gravitational forces, muscle tone, and tissue viscoelasticity. Rest position is important for determining the occlusal vertical dimension in prosthodontics.
Reference: Okeson – Management of Temporomandibular Disorders, 8th ed., 2019