In dentistry, Vertical Dimension (VD) refers to the distance measured between two selected points on the maxilla (upper jaw) and the mandible (lower jaw). This measurement is taken when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation, meaning when they are fully closed together.
Understanding Vertical Dimension
VD is a crucial concept in dentistry because it influences:
- Facial aesthetics: Proper VD helps maintain a balanced and natural facial appearance.
- Chewing function: An appropriate VD enables efficient chewing and biting.
- Speech: Vertical dimension can affect the way we pronounce certain sounds.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health: Incorrect VD can contribute to TMJ disorders.
Defining VD according to Lucia V.O. (1961)
According to Lucia V.O. (1961), Vertical Dimension (VD) can be defined as the distance between any two points measured in the maxilla and the mandible when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation.
Types of Vertical Dimension
Generally, there are two types of vertical dimension considered in dentistry:
- Vertical Dimension of Rest (VDR): This refers to the distance between the maxilla and mandible when the jaw is in a relaxed, resting position. Muscles are at minimal contraction at this stage.
- Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO): This is the vertical distance when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation (fully closed). The VDO is generally a few millimeters less than the VDR.
Why is VD Important?
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: VD is assessed during dental examinations and is critical for planning restorations, prosthetics, and orthodontic treatments.
- Prosthodontics: In creating dentures or crowns, getting the VD right is essential for comfort, function, and appearance.
- Orthodontics: VD is taken into account in orthodontic treatment to achieve correct bite relationships.
- TMJ Issues: Evaluation of VD is important for diagnosing and treating temporomandibular joint disorders.
Practical Examples
Here are a few examples of how VD impacts dental procedures:
- Dentures: If a denture is constructed with an incorrect VD, it can cause discomfort, difficulty in chewing, and unnatural facial appearance.
- Crowns: New crowns that don't respect the correct VD can lead to an altered bite and even jaw joint problems.
- Orthodontic treatment: VD should be evaluated and correctly aligned when correcting overbites or open bites.
How is VD Measured?
- Clinical Examination: Dentists use various methods, including visual assessment, facial measurements, and specific instruments to measure the VD.
- Radiographs: X-rays may be used to evaluate skeletal relationships related to the vertical dimension.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| VD | Distance between the maxilla and mandible when teeth are in contact. |
| VDR | Vertical dimension at jaw rest. |
| VDO | Vertical dimension when teeth are fully closed. |
| Importance | Impacts aesthetics, chewing function, speech, and TMJ health. |
| Measurement | Using instruments, visual assessments, and sometimes radiographs. |
