Jaw Relation

Jaw relation is defined as the spatial relationship of the mandible (the movable
part of the stomatognathic system) with the maxilla.

Classification:
1. Orientation Jaw Relation- The Jaw relation that
orients the mandible with the cranium in such a way,
that when the mandible is kept in its most anterior and
superior position, the mandible can rotate in a sagittal
plane around an imaginary transverse axis passing
through or near the condyles.

2. Vertical Jaw Relation- It is the relation of the

mandible to the maxilla in vertical dimension.
a) Vertical Dimension at Rest (RVD)
b) Vertical Dimension in Occlusion (OVD)

*RVD-OVD = freeway space

(ideal freeway space = 2-4mm)

3. Horizontal Jaw Relation- It is the relationship of

the mandible with the maxilla in a horizontal plane, at
the established vertical dimension.
a) Centric
b) Eccentric

Significance:
1. Establishes the ideal overbite. Overbite is the vertical
overlap of the maxillary anteriors over the mandibular
anteriors when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation.
Ideal overbite = 2mm
2. Establishes the ideal overjet. Overjet is the horizontal
overlap of the maxillary anteriors over mandibular
anteriors when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation.
Ideal overjet = 2mm.
3. Facial profile (orthognathism, retrognathism,
prognathism) is governed by jaw relation.
4. Functional efficiency.
5. Phonetics
Compiled by- Tatva Keswani, Sakshi Chandak, Shweta Mishra, Yashasvi Morolia, Bhagyashri
Ghanokar (II BDS 2019-20)