Stable occlusion requirements are met when:

• A. Stable stops on all the teeth when the condyles are in centric relation
• B. Separation of posterior teeth during protrusion
• C. Complete intercuspation occurs regardless of condylar position
• D. Neutral zone is the position of teeth when lingual and labial forces are balanced

Answer: (A)

Stable occlusion means a repeatable, balanced contact pattern when the jaw is in a defined, reproducible position. In centric relation, the condyles are seated in a consistent place in the joints, so the teeth should meet with stable, even contacts that create reliable stops for each posterior tooth. When all teeth have these stable stops in that position, the occlusion resists tipping or shifting during function and provides a dependable foundation for any restorative work.

If the posterior teeth separate during protrusion, there is a loss of posterior support in that movement and the occlusion becomes unstable. Requiring complete intercuspation regardless of condylar position ignores the need for a reproducible reference position to ensure stability. The neutral zone describes a balance of muscular forces around the teeth, guiding tooth position, but it is not the same as the specific, stable occlusal stops formed in centric relation.