Anterior hyperfunction: etiology and clinical managements

Abstract

Combination syndrome, a well-known specific condition in the patient with edentulous maxilla and partially edentulous mandible with only anterior teeth, has been recognized as anterior hyperfunction syndrome. Although anterior hyperfunction has not been defined clearly, it is supposed to describe anterior hyperfunction as excessive occlusal force by residual mandibular anterior teeth. This is not limited to Eichner C2 (edentulous maxilla and partially edentulous mandible), which typically shows combination syndrome, but is also observed in Eichner C1 and B4 patients. Anterior hyperfunction is attributed to weakening or loss of posterior occlusal supports, and reduction of vertical dimension of occlusion in many cases.

This article aims to describe oral conditions induced by anterior hyperfunction and to discuss etiology and clinical managements.