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Masticatory function in subacute TMD patients before and after treatment.
L J Pereira1, M H Steenks, A de Wijer
1Department of Clinical Dentistry, Vale do Rio Verde University, UNINCOR, Três Corações/MG, Brazil.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|February 13, 2009
Summary
Treatment improved bite force and chewing behavior in temporomandibular disorders (TMD) patients, though chewing efficiency remained impaired. This study highlights the impact of TMD on oral function.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Masticatory function is often compromised in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).
- Subacute, non-specific TMD presentations require investigation into effective treatment strategies.
- Understanding the impact of TMD on oral function is crucial for patient rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the influence of treatment on oral function and clinical outcomes in subacute non-specific TMD patients.
- To quantify changes in masticatory performance, bite force, muscle activity, and chewing cycle duration post-treatment.
- To assess improvements in patient-reported outcomes, including mandibular function and pain.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of fifteen patients with subacute TMD underwent a treatment intervention.
- Masticatory performance, maximum voluntary bite force, muscle activity (electromyography), and chewing cycle duration were measured pre- and post-treatment.
- Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the Mandibular Function Impairment Questionnaire (MFIQ) and pain scores (Visual Analogue Scale).
- Comparisons were made with an age- and gender-matched control group without TMD.
Main Results:
- Maximum voluntary bite force significantly increased post-treatment, but remained lower than controls.
- No significant changes were observed in electromyography (muscle activity) values.
- Masticatory performance did not improve, with patients remaining less efficient chewers than controls.
- Average chewing cycle duration significantly decreased, and MFIQ scores showed significant improvement.
- Visual Analogue Scale scores for pain increased during clenching and chewing tasks post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Subacute temporomandibular joint disorders negatively impact chewing behavior and mandibular function.
- Treatment led to significant improvements in bite force, chewing cycle duration, and perceived mandibular function.
- Despite treatment gains, masticatory performance and efficiency in TMD patients remain a challenge, indicating a need for further therapeutic approaches.
