Page 51 - My FlipBook

SELECTION AND ARRANGEMENT OF TEETH. 39

any changes that may be necessary to make them harmonize
with the general features of the patient.
Fifth, the articulation. The nicest important point to
hear in mind in articulating the teeth is the normal articu-
lation of the natural teeth. The student should study the
wonderful mechanical adaptability of these organs when-
ever the opportunity is afforded. Fig. 14 is a typical illus-
trati(^n. Observe that all the teeth except the inferior

Fig. 14.

central incisors and the superior third molars have two
antagonists in articulation.
In arranging the teeth upon the wax plates, some prefer
to adjust the inferior incisors first, wdiile others claim that
the superior central incisors should first be set in position.
The latter is doubtless the best practice, though it is a point
of small consequence if the proper result is obtained. In
arranging the posterior teeth it is important that the inner
cusps should occlude as perfectly as those of the outer or
buccal surface. The greater pressure should usually be
brought upon the bicuspids and the first molars; and this
bite should be perfect, that is, these teeth should touch
evenly and at the same time upon both sides of the mouth.