reliability of bilateral electromyographic data of a muscle

ABSTRACT

The EMG activity of anterior temporal muscle and masseter musc le were recorded bilaterally, by determining the maximal mean voltage amplitude during maximal contraction, in 21 male subjects aged 18 to 20 years. The electromyographic data were analysed and discussed. Differences of highly significant values were measured between the right and left side [P<0.05 and P<0.01 for the anterior temporal muscle and masseter muscle respectively]. This difference was interpretated as adaptation in such a way to variation in the masticatory pattern and/or asymmetrical skeletal framework of the subject. The following conclusion can be drawn; if quantitative electromyographic data to be used in dental research.and clinical purposes, interpretation of bilateral EMG activity of specific muscle is a must