[The systemic diagnosis].

INTRODUCTION: Orthodontic diagnosis is generally centered on the morphological aspect, as is the treatment: it is most often a matter of modifying the shape of the arches and their relationships to adjust them to a morphological norm with the goal of a beautiful smile. However legitimate it may be, this diagnostic approach may seem reductive if we consider that teeth are also used to chew: it is even their main function. But how to take into account the masticatory function?

MATERIALS AND METHODS: With the help of clinical examples, the author develops the modalities of the clinical exploration of the mandibular kinematics, reflection of the mastication, on which the systemic diagnosis is based. It highlights the proprioceptive resources of the masticatory system that systemic treatment targets during the correction of malocclusions.

CONCLUSION: The systemic diagnosis highlights the functional role of the arches, inviting, during their correction, to rehabilitate mastication in order to improve their stability.