Bite force in temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) and healthy complete denture wearers

Abstract

The signs and symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) may contribute to reduce bite force and muscular activity. The aims of this study were to compare bite force in complete denture wearers with TMD (TMD group) and without TMD (healthy group).The TMD group consisted of 9 individuals, who had worn a maxillary and a mandibular complete removable denture for more than 10 years. The healthy group consisted of 9 participants who wore dentures and had satisfactory interocclusal and maxillomandibular relationship. Helkimo Index was used to analyze the dysfunction level. Maximum bite force was measured using a digital dynamometer with capacity of 100 kgf and adapted to oral conditions.The TMD group presented smaller mean bite force values than the healthy group, though without statistical significance (p>0.05). This outcome suggests that the TMD signs and symptoms and the structural conditions of the dentures did not affect the maximal bite force of complete denture wearers.

Styloid process elongation and calcification in subjects with tmd: clinical and radiographic aspects

“…TMD is a collective term that encompasses a large number of clinical problems involving the masticatory muscles and/or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (3). It generates a large number of signs and symptoms that are often similar to other disorders or diseases.…”

Complete dentures with Nóbilo’s sliding plates: A condylar position and electromyograph analysis

“…TMD signs and symptoms may be present in elderly patients and may also occur in complete denture wearers [5]. This is usually related to the patient's general health, head posture, chewing efficiency [1], bite force [5], and complete denture conditions [6].…”

The severity of temporomandibular joint disorder by teeth loss in the elderly

“…3 Loss of teeth usually determines an important change in the masticatory system which affects the bone structure, oral mucosa, and masticator muscles. 4 It is also one of the most important factors associated with the increase of temporomandibular joint disorder, primarily the loss of the first maxilla premolar.…”

“…According to Tortopidis et al 4 the clinical symptoms and signs of temporomandibular joint disorder happen more often to the elderly patients. This is related to the patients' general health, head position, masticatory efficiency and the occlusion condition.…”

“…This is related to the patients' general health, head position, masticatory efficiency and the occlusion condition. 4 The cause of temporomandibular joint disorder is very complex and is still in debate. 6 Previous researchers argue that temporomandibular joint disorder may be caused by the loss of teeth's support and the increase of burden that produce some changes such as disc shifting and degenerative joint disorders.…”