Centric occlusion is achieved when the mandible is in which position?

• A. Centric relation position
• B. Premature contact position
• C. Maximum intercuspation
• D. Anterior guiding position

Answer: (A)

Understanding how jaw position relates to tooth contacts is key here. Centric occlusion is defined by the contacts that occur when the mandible is in centric relation—the repeatable jaw position where the condyles are seated in the most anterior‑superior position within the glenoid fossae with the discs properly interposed. In this position, the teeth come together in a stable, repeatable occlusion, giving the occlusion its functional reference point.

Premature contact describes contacts that occur early during closure and indicate a misaligned bite—not the defined occlusal position. Maximum intercuspation refers to the fullest contact of the biting surfaces, which can happen in CR or in another jaw position depending on the individual, but centric occlusion specifically ties to the CR position for its definition. Anterior guiding position relates to the way the front teeth guide jaw movements rather than a static tooth contact position.

So centric occlusion is achieved when the mandible is in centric relation, providing a stable, repeatable set of occlusal contacts.