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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
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Measuring Maxillary Posterior Tooth Movement: A Model Assessment using Palatal and Dental Superimposition
Published on: February 23, 2024
Relationship between anteroposterior maxillomandibular morphology and masticatory jaw movement patterns
G E Gerstner1, F Marchi, H Haerian
1Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences, University of Michigan School of Dentistry, Ann Arbor 48109-1078, USA. geger@umich.edu
Summary
Jaw movement patterns and muscle activity correlate with craniomandibular skeletal morphology. This study found specific jaw movement and EMG variables explained over 75% of ANB angle variation.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Orthodontics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- The relationship between oral function and craniomandibular morphology is not well understood.
- Quantifying jaw movements and muscle activity can provide insights into skeletal variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between quantifiable masticatory jaw movements, EMG activity, and craniomandibular morphology (ANB angle).
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six healthy subjects underwent jaw movement and surface EMG data collection during gum chewing.
- Data were digitized and analyzed using stepwise linear regression and discriminant analysis.
- ANB angle was measured from lateral cephalographs.
Main Results:
- A combination of seven jaw movement and EMG variables accounted for over 75% of the variation in the ANB angle (adjusted R2 = 0.78, P <.001).
- Discriminant analysis correctly classified subjects into skeletal classes I, II, and III with significant accuracy.
Conclusions:
- There is a significant association between anteroposterior skeletal morphology (ANB angle) and masticatory jaw movement patterns.
- Quantified jaw movements and EMG activity can help predict craniomandibular morphology.
