Page 44 - DP Vol 21 No1_Neat

FUNCTIONAL DENTISTRY

Fig 2: A graphic representation of the three possible positions of the mandible based on Smylist® - The BMP, the RMP and the FMP. The muscles in
BMP and RMP are in harmony and symmetrical while in FMP the muscles on one side have been shown to be hypertrophied and on the other side
are shorter and hypotrophied. The condylar position is harmonious in the first two pictures and in the FMP picture, the condyles are imbalanced
and asymmetrical on both sides. In the BMP position the teeth are in harmony (BOP), in the RMP position the teeth are in the G space (hence no
teeth contact) and in the FMP the teeth have imbalanced and asymmetrical loads (FOP).

actually an automated self-correction movement of the teeth termed BMP is the zone of proprioception, termed the G space. The zone of
the self ortho phenomenon. proprioception is where the mandible ideally stays most of the day and
The occlusal relationship of the teeth will not be symmetrical, and night. All movement of the mandible beyond the G space takes place
the load pattern will also not be even. This kind of teeth relationship is while the mandible is functioning. This movement from the G space
termed the Forced Occlusal Position or the FOP. The FOP is not static is relaxed and smooth.
and will keep on constantly changing. The condyles will also not be The above terminologies, which have been based on logic, can
in symmetry, and they are said to be in the Forced Condylar Position be tabulated as follows for easier understanding of the mandibular
or the FCP. Depending on the mandibular rotation, various forms of movements and status, and the associated occlusion and condylar
TMJ disorders will be seen in this condition, and the glenoid fossa will position. The table is based on the status of the musculoskeletal
remodel as the rotation/tiltation advances. system. When all the muscles are ready and holding the mandible for
If all the muscles which work with the mandible are relaxed and not the action of mastication, it is a balanced position of the mandible in
over-contracted, it is called the Relaxed Mandibular Position, the RMP. the same fashion that all body muscles hold the posture and are ready
In this position, the mandibular teeth are fenced by the maxillary teeth for any movement. When all muscles associated with the mandible are
but without any contact. The condyles are favourably positioned in the relaxed and not primed for action but in a state of rest, it is called the
glenoid fossa and not impinging on the tissues. They are termed to be relaxed mandibular position. When the muscles are not in harmony,
in the Relaxed Condylar Position or the RCP. the mandible is being pulled in different directions by the various
The zone in which the mandible moves from the RMP to the muscles.

The Smylist® nomenclature for MANDIBLE OCCLUSION CONDYLES
positions of the components
of MMOC System STATUS
Balanced BMP - Balanced BOP - Balanced BCP - Balanced
Mandibular Position Occlusal Position Condylar Position
Relaxed RMP - Relaxed No Occlusion RCP - Relaxed Condylar
Mandibular Position G Space Position
Forced FMP - Forced FOP - Forced FCP - Forced Condylar
Mandibular Position Occlusal Position Position

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44 Dental Practice I March-April 2025 I Vol 21 No 2