Tandfunktionen

Tandfunktionen is a term used in several European languages, notably Danish, Norwegian and Swedish, to denote the functional role of teeth in the body. It encompasses mastication, speech, aesthetics and occlusal stability.

Anatomy and biomechanics: The dentition and supporting structures—enamel, dentin, pulp, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone—work together with the upper and lower jaws and the temporomandibular joints. This system distributes biting forces and provides the guidance needed for coordinated jaw movements during chewing.

Functions: Teeth act as cutting, tearing and grinding tools that process food, while occlusion coordinates jaw movements through incisal and canine guidance and posterior contacts. Beyond chewing, tandfunktionen influences speech sounds, facial aesthetics and the vertical dimension of the face, contributing to airway maintenance and swallowing.

Clinical relevance: Impairments of tandfunktionen can arise from malocclusion, dental wear, bruxism, periodontal disease or TMJ disorders. Such problems can reduce chewing efficiency, comfort and overall function, guiding therapeutic approaches in orthodontics, prosthodontics and restorative dentistry to restore balance and harmony of the dentition.

Assessment and management: Evaluation typically includes analysis of bite relationships, occlusal contacts, jaw movements and the health of dental tissues. Treatment aims to restore functional efficiency, protect joint health and preserve aesthetics, often integrating multidisciplinary care to maintain or improve overall oral function.