Injury from normal/abnormal occlusal forces applied to teeth with inadequate supporting tissue describes which condition?

• A. Occlusal trauma
• B. Primary occlusal trauma
• C. Secondary occlusal trauma
• D. Working occlusal interference

Answer: (C)

Secondary occlusal trauma occurs when the periodontium has reduced supporting tissue, so occlusal forces—whether normal or abnormal—injure the teeth because there isn’t enough attachment to distribute the load. With diminished support, even normal bite forces can overload the periodontal ligament and supporting bone, leading to changes such as increased tooth mobility and signs of periodontal bone loss over time. This differs from primary occlusal trauma, where the periodontal support is adequate and injury arises from excessive forces, not lack of support. Working occlusal interference involves premature contacts during function, but the key idea here is injury due to inadequate tissue support, which defines secondary occlusal trauma.