What does a bite registration primarily show?

A bite registration primarily shows the occlusal relationship of maxillary and mandibular teeth. This is crucial because it helps dental professionals assess how the teeth come together during biting and chewing, which is essential for various dental procedures, including the fabrication of crowns, dentures, and orthodontic devices.

The process of taking a bite registration involves using materials that capture the way the upper and lower teeth interdigitate. This information is vital for ensuring that any dental restorations or adjustments made will fit properly within the patient's mouth, allowing for optimal function and comfort.

In this context, other aspects such as the color of the dental material, the level of saliva production, or the shape of the gums do not provide the necessary bite relationship information that is critical for effective treatment planning and execution in dentistry. Therefore, focusing on the occlusal relationship is what makes this option the correct choice.