Evaluation of mandibular dynamics and bite force in myofascial pain follow-up

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to assess clinicallyand through electronic axiography thechanges in mandibular dynamics in the symptomaticand asymptomatic phases occurringin patients with a diagnosis of myofascialpain. From October 2003 through December2004, a sample of 10 cases (all female aged,20-50 years old) clinically diagnosed ofmyofascial pain were followed up to identifychanges in mandibular movements. Thepatients were interviewed, and anamnesis anda clinical examination were performed.Patients with a diagnosis of myofascial painwere recorded with an electronic axiograph(Kavo, model Arcus digma™) and their biteforce was measured (Kratos™ digitaldynamometer). The patients were theninstructed about treatment and follow-up wascarried out. After the remission of symptoms,a new axiography and determination of biteforce was performed. Axiograph analysisshowed significant changes in the mandibulardynamic pattern between the symptomaticand asymptomatic phases and a statisticallysignificant (p<0.001) increase in bite force in100% of the patients after pain remission wasverified. The changes in mandibular dynamicswere: an increase in maximum jaw openingwithout pain in 100% of the sample and adecreased mandibular deviation in openingand closing jaw movements in 70% of thepatients. The present study suggests that axiographicstudy of mandibular movements andthe determination of bite force can contributeto a better understanding of temporomandibulardisorders, and an improvement indiagnostic criteria and the follow-up of therapeuticprocedures (AU)

RESUMEN

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