The incisal guidance on the articulator is the mechanical equivalent of what?

The incisal guidance on an articulator represents the relationship and movement between the upper and lower incisors, specifically considering their horizontal and vertical overlap. This relationship is crucial for reproducing the natural dynamics of incisal edges during occlusion and function. The incisal guidance influences how teeth come together during various movements of the jaw, affecting the overall occlusal scheme.

In articulators, the settings for incisal guidance are adjusted to mimic natural incisal overlaps, facilitating accurate reproduction of functional movements and thus ensuring that dental restorations fit appropriately and function well within the patient's bite. This guidance is particularly important in the context of aesthetic dentistry and occlusal adjustments, where precise control over incisal movement is required for optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.