Application of the Functionally Generated Path Technique to Restore Mandibular Molars in Bilateral Group Function Occlusion

The functionally generated path (FGP) is a static representation of the opposing cusps’ dynamic eccentric movements from a centric position to achieve optimal articulation and occlusal harmony. When understood and appreciated, use of the FGP technique is a straightforward and practical method to achieve harmonious occlusal anatomy of restorations with the anterior determinant/anterior guidance, the posterior determinant/condylar guidance, existing occlusal and cuspal anatomy, and the neuromuscular system. Although the FGP technique is normally used in the fabrication of maxillary posterior indirect restorations, it is described and applied here in the fabrication of mandibular posterior restorations that maintained the patient's bilateral group function occlusion while eliminating the nonworking side and protrusive interferences. This novel procedure involved the use of a stone crib to intraorally construct a stone core that captured the FGP recording while simultaneously indexing to the contralateral and ipsilateral mandibular dentition. This technique lends additional stability to the stone core to minimize error during the mounting process.