Arguing over the definitions and its implication: Reconsidering centric relation in dentistry

Abstract

Centric Relation (CR) is probably the most controversial concept in dentistry, with significantly impact on education, clinical practice, and research as well. Historically, more than seven definitions were put under the term “centric relation” in the academic glossaries, [1,2] and yet no consensus is achieved. Different definitions were held between different specialists over the decades [3] and dental students in different schools were taught different versions of the concept [4]. Considering the importance of CR in many fields of dentistry, the controversy reflects the current limitation of research and technology, and also the conflict between different treatment paradigms [5]. Li Zhongjie; Lan Tingting; Liu Yang* Department of Temporomandibular Joint, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China 610041