Orthodontic Glossary

noun an obstruction or blockage

verb to obstruct or block

• The dentist explained how the food particles can occlude the small spaces between teeth.
• Make sure to brush your teeth properly to prevent any food from occluding your teeth.
• I hate when popcorn kernels occlude my teeth!
• His stubbornness occludes him from seeing the truth.

noun the alignment or positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed

• The dentist identified an occlusion in the patient's bite, causing discomfort.
• My sister had to get braces because of an occlusion in her teeth.
• I can't eat popcorn because of this stupid occlusion in my mouth.
• The political occlusion prevented any progress on the new legislation.