What is the primary function of the contact point in dental occlusion?

The primary function of the contact point in dental occlusion is to stabilize the dental arch. Contact points are the areas where teeth touch each other in normal occlusion. They play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the dental arch by providing stability and support during functions like chewing and biting. When teeth are properly aligned and in contact, they help to distribute forces evenly across the arch, which is essential for both functional efficiency and the prevention of dental issues such as wear, mobility, or shifting of teeth.

While other factors such as alignment and force absorption are also important in dental occlusion, the central role of the contact points focuses on stabilizing the entire dental structure, ensuring that all components work harmoniously during oral functions.