ABSTRACT
The study evaluates the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) movements of patients with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) before and after therapy with the functional appliances of the 'function generating bite' (FGB) type. Thirty subjects suffering from TMD were selected and divided into two groups: group A (young patients: four males, nine females, mean age +/- standard deviation: 13.3+/-1.5 years); group B (adults: three males, 14 females, mean age +/- standard deviation: 23.2+/-4.4 years). A control group comprised 13 healthy subjects with perfect normal occlusion, TMD-free, was matched for age and sex with patient groups and was examined at T0 and after 12 months (T1). Computerized axiography was performed before and after therapy (average 13 months) with FGBs to evaluate any difference in condyle border movements. Results showed a statistically significant improvement after treatment, for groups A and B, in length, clicks, tracings with normal morphology, superimposition, deviations, regularity and return to starting position and speed (statistical analysis: chi-squared test) except for the symmetry of tracings which was significantly improved only for the young patient group. No statistically significant differences at time T0/T1 were found in the control group. In conclusion, the study shows that the TMJ tracings of TMD patients before and after therapy with 'FGB' significantly improve especially in young patients. FGB may be a useful appliance to improve TMJ function in young and adult TMD patients requiring orthodontic treatment.
