Partial Mock‐Up–Guided Rehabilitation of Severe Tooth Wear: A Clinical Technique

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective This article describes a staged temporary occlusal protocol for selected patients with severe tooth wear and altered mandibular closure, illustrated through a clinical case. Clinical Considerations Advanced tooth wear may be associated with a protrusive mandibular posture, reduced posterior support, and incisal‐dominant function. A structured temporary occlusal phase based on a bonded resin mock‐up can be used to progressively re‐establish posterior support while controlling anterior contacts. Clinical evaluation, combined with adjunctive functional monitoring when available, may help assess adaptation and guide refinement of the occlusal scheme before definitive treatment. Conclusions A structured temporary phase may provide a clinical option for reassessing occlusal relationships and refining the definitive rehabilitation plan in selected complex situations. Clinical Significance Temporary occlusal rehabilitation may serve as a reversible evaluative phase in the management of selected patients with severe tooth wear associated with reduced posterior support, persistent anterior contacts, and a protrusive mandibular closure pattern.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, 2026 · DOI ↗