American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Orthodontics Certification!

Canine protected occlusion is typically observed in patients with Class II malocclusion. This phenomenon occurs when the canines interdigitate to protect the posterior teeth during lateral movements. In Class II relationships, the upper teeth are positioned ahead of the lower teeth, which can lead to an increased reliance on the canines for guidance during lateral excursions. This protection is vital because it helps to prevent potential wear and trauma to the posterior teeth by directing occlusal forces through the canines instead.

In Class I relationships, the occlusion is more neutral, allowing for a more balanced interdigitation of all teeth, and is less likely to emphasize the role of the canines. In Class III cases, where the lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth, posterior teeth may be subjected to more wear and possible trauma during lateral movements, making canine protection less relevant. Normal occlusion represents an ideal relationship that does not emphasize canine guidance as prominently as in Class II situations. Thus, Class II patients are the ones where canine protected occlusion is most commonly recognized and utilized.