Deciduous occlusion of 20 leukoderm children, 3.5 to 5.5 years old was analyzed from a functional viewpoint establishing maximal mandibular opening, maximal protrusion, and maximal lateral movements, in relation to sex, arch types, and movement records, using a millimeter ruler, gothic arch tracing and comparative microscope showing that the maximal opening capacity was 45.72 mm, without significant statistical differences among the variables. The mean values for the maximal protrusion were 8.34 mm for a millimeter ruler measuring and 7.25 mm for the gothic arch, with significant statistical differences at a level of 5% in the two evaluations, and in the interaction of evaluation/arch type, and evaluation/sex. The mean values for the maximal lateral movements were 8.11 mm for the right side and 8.15 mm for the left, with a millimeter ruler and by the gothic arch, 7.96 mm and 7.99mm with significant statistical differences at a level of 5% for the arch type. Thus the functional determinants of deciduous occlusion can be established serving as a base for maintenance, interception, morphological and functional restoration of the stomatognathic system when it is altered ensuring suitable development, including that of the permanent occlusion
Dental occlusion; Dental arch; Mandibular movements
