Evaluation of functional parameters in the occlusion of complete denture wearers before and after prosthetic treatment.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to evaluate functional parameters of the occlusion in complete denture wearers before and after prosthetic treatment. METHODS: The sample used as the basis for the present study consisted of 50 healthy Caucasian patients (35 women and 15 men), aged from 44 to 86 years (mean=69.18±10), with a total deficiency of teeth. All patients received new complete dentures. Each patient underwent lateral radiograph with the presence of complete dentures, both before (initially existing dentures) and after the prosthetic treatment (new restorations). Cephalometric analysis was based on the Ricketts and McNamara criteria. In order to assess the functional parameters of the occlusion T-scan III analysis was conducted. The following parameters were measured: occlusion - and disclusion time. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences of functional parameters obtained before and 3 months after the treatment were noted in the whole study group. Both before and after therapy occlusion time was longer in women than in men. No statistically significant link was noted between functional parameters in occlusion and age of the patients, denture wearing time, and edentulous period. Some relationships were noted between occlusion time and cephalometric parameters associated with anterior facial height. CONCLUSION: Reconstruction of the surface of artificial teeth and vertical occlusal dimension affects the sustainability of parameters of occlusion and balance of forces in centric occlusion. The progressive shortening of occlusion time during the period of monitoring may be considered as a sign of progressive adaptation.

The influence of emotional state on the masticatory muscles function in the group of young healthy adults.

UNLABELLED: Stress may affect the function of all the components of the masticatory system and may ultimately lead to differentiated symptoms and finally to systemic and structural dysfunctions. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of stress on the masticatory muscles function in young healthy adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 201 young, Angle's first class, healthy volunteers, 103 female and 98 male, in the age between 18 and 21 years were recruited into the study. All the participants underwent clinical examination according to the Slavicek scheme, questionnaire survey according to Perceived Stress Scale, and assessment of masticatory muscles function in central occlusion. RESULTS: Symptoms of masticatory system dysfunction were found in the group of 86 subjects (46,24%). All the muscles activity in central occlusion was comparable in female and male groups. Mean values of masseters activities in the group of low stress subjects (75,52 µV±15,97) were statistically different from the groups with medium (82,43 µV±15,04) and high (81,33±12,05) perceived stress (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Chronic stress may reveal or exacerbate symptoms of masticatory dysfunction.