TY  - JOUR
A1  - ,  
T1  - Evaluation of mandibular dynamics and bite force in myofascial pain follow-up
JO  - Eur. J. Anat.
SN  - 1136-4890
Y1  - 2006
VL  - 10
SP  - 31
EP  - 36
UR  - http://www.eurjanat.com/web/paper.php?id=06010031
KW  - adult
KW  - anamnesis
KW  - article
KW  - clinical article
KW  - clinical assessment
KW  - clinical examination
KW  - controlled study
KW  - dynamometry
KW  - female
KW  - follow up
KW  - human
KW  - interview
KW  - jaw movement
KW  - jaw opening reflex
KW  - mandible
KW  - mastication
KW  - myofascial pain
KW  - remission
KW  - temporomandibular joint
N2  - The purpose of this study was to assess clinically and through electronic axiography the changes in mandibular dynamics in the symptomatic and asymptomatic phases occurring in patients with a diagnosis of myofascial pain. From October 2003 through December 2004, a sample of 10 cases (all female aged, 20-50 years old) clinically diagnosed of myofascial pain were followed up to identify changes in mandibular movements. The patients were interviewed, and anamnesis and a clinical examination were performed. Patients with a diagnosis of myofascial pain were recorded with an electronic axiograph (Kavo, model Arcus digmaâ?˘) and their bite force was measured (Kratosâ?˘ digital dynamometer). The patients were then instructed about treatment and follow-up was carried out. After the remission of symptoms, a new axiography and determination of bite force was performed. Axiograph analysis showed significant changes in the mandibular dynamic pattern between the symptomatic and asymptomatic phases and a statistically significant (p<0.001) increase in bite force in 100% of the patients after pain remission was verified. The changes in mandibular dynamics were: an increase in maximum jaw opening without pain in 100% of the sample and a decreased mandibular deviation in opening and closing jaw movements in 70% of the patients. The present study suggests that axiographic study of mandibular movements and the determination of bite force can contribute to a better understanding of temporomandibular disorders, and an improvement in diagnostic criteria and the follow-up of therapeutic procedures.
ER  -