Which statement describes the load distribution with posterior teeth bearing more load than anterior teeth?

• A. Posterior teeth contact
• B. Anterior Guidance
• C. Group Function
• D. Occlusal Load

Answer: (A)

When chewing forces are applied, the posterior teeth typically bear most of the load because of their position and larger occlusal surfaces. Saying “posterior teeth contact” directly identifies which teeth are taking the load, matching the scenario where posterior teeth carry more force than the anterior teeth. Anterior guidance describes how the front teeth guide jaw movement and help disclude the back teeth, not the distribution of load. Group function refers to load sharing among several posterior teeth during a lateral chew, which is more about a pattern in a specific movement than the general posterior-dominant load described here. Occlusal load is a broad term and doesn’t specify which teeth are bearing the load.