Changes in head position due to occlusal supporting zone loss during clenching

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomechanics
• Kinesiology

Background:

• The stomatognathic system, encompassing teeth, jaw, and associated muscles, plays a crucial role in mastication and speech.
• Altered occlusal conditions can potentially influence head and body posture.
• Understanding these relationships is vital for diagnosing and treating postural issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the stomatognathic system's condition and body posture.
• To analyze changes in head position during clenching under varying occlusal conditions (unilateral and bilateral loss of occlusal support).

Main Methods:

• Participants underwent clenching exercises with unilateral and bilateral loss of the occlusal supporting zone.
• Changes in head position were measured and analyzed.
• Data were compared across different occlusal conditions.

Main Results:

• Clenching consistently altered head position, irrespective of occlusal conditions.
• The extent of head position change was not significantly affected by occlusal conditions.
• Head position shifted forward and downward during clenching, regardless of occlusal support.
• Unilateral loss of occlusal support resulted in a more lateral head shift to the opposite side compared to bilateral loss.

Conclusions:

• Clenching influences head position, suggesting a link between the stomatognathic system and posture.
• Unilateral loss of occlusal support may induce asymmetry in neck muscle activity.
• These findings suggest that occlusal dysfunctions could contribute to postural imbalances and neck muscle disharmony.