FAQ
What is occlusal vertical dimension?
A straight answer first, then the context behind it, from the technicians who do the work.
THE SHORT ANSWER
Occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) is the measured height of the face when the teeth are in maximum intercuspation. It defines the space between the upper and lower jaws at rest versus in occlusion. Establishing correct OVD is foundational for full-arch restorations, implant prosthetics, and removable cases because errors of even 1-2 mm compound across the entire bite and drive remakes.
THE CONTEXT
What sits behind it
For prosthodontists and general dentists managing full-arch rehabilitations, OVD is the single most consequential vertical measurement in case planning. When OVD is collapsed through wear, tooth loss, or failed restorations, the lab and clinician must agree on a new target before any CAD design begins. That agreement requires centric relation records, mounted models, and ideally a diagnostic wax-up or printed prototype to verify the number in the patient's mouth before any final restorations are milled.
On implant cases specifically, including All-on-X fixed prosthetics, OVD determines screw-access angles, framework thickness, and the phonetic comfort of the finished prosthetic. A lab receiving the case without a confirmed OVD will default to assumptions that may require full-case remakes. At Dani Dental, implant case intake includes an OVD verification checklist so that dimension is locked before the digital design file is ever opened.
Removable prosthodontics, complete dentures and implant-retained overdentures included, are equally sensitive. Restoring OVD on an edentulous patient without adequate vertical records is one of the most common reasons complete denture cases come back for occlusal resets within the first 90 days. Building in a try-in stage with a verified wax record eliminates the majority of those remakes before the final pour.
RELATED QUESTIONS
People also ask
What is occlusal vertical dimension?
GO DEEPER
Read the full guide on all procedures
This question is one piece of a larger workflow. The pillar page covers materials, turnaround, and how we build the case to your specification.
REQUEST A DOCTOR KIT
Try the work before you switch.
Request a Doctor Kit and we'll mail RX pads, a shade guide, and pre-paid shipping for your first three cases. No call, no contract.