I loved when the buccal bite was introduced. Because of it, CEREC users can dial-in the occlusion of their restorations. But how can the operator ensure they are getting a good buccal bite? Well, it is all about registering enough good overlapping data points.

I personally like getting the buccal bite for posterior restorations in the bicuspid area. When taking pictures in that area, one tiny movement can ensure success. The roll shot in this area will ensure the successful stitching of the buccal bite to the two models.

First, even as good as CEREC technology is, it cannot violate the physical properties of light. It cannot bend light around a corner. To get a great stitch, get the data points BELOW the height of contour on the teeth. Remember, the buccal bite is taken 90 degrees to the teeth, so the more data points one has to stitch too, the more accurate the buccal bite will be and the better the occlusion will be for the CEREC restorations. On lower teeth, it is important to get below the height of contour because usually the incisal third of the tooth is covered by the opposing tooth. It's even helpful to image part of the gingiva.

So to get an accurate buccal bite and ensure great occlusion for the CEREC restoration, remember the roll shot to grab those important data points.

Thanks Flem, excellent points for getting consistent buccal bite stitching.