In lateral excursions, which concept causes disocclusion of non-working teeth on the working side?

• A. Anterior Guidance
• B. Posterior Stability
• C. Absence of Posterior Interference
• D. Centric Occlusion

Answer: (A)

During lateral movements, the path of the mandible is defined by the contacts of the anterior teeth. Anterior guidance means the canines and other front teeth guide the movement so that the posterior teeth separate (disocclude) on the working side. This disocclusion prevents posterior interferences as the jaw shifts toward the working side, protecting the posterior teeth and joints from sideways forces. If anterior guidance is present and effective, the posterior teeth on the working side stay out of contact during the excursion, which is the desired disocclusion. Other concepts describe positions or outcomes (like centric occlusion or general posterior relationships) but don’t explain why the posterior teeth separate during lateral movement the way anterior guidance does.