Gnatho-postural treatment in an air force pilot

Area of Science:

• Dental Science
• Aerospace Medicine
• Sports Science

Background:

• Air force pilots face unique occupational stresses, increasing susceptibility to oral parafunctions like bruxism.
• The craniocervical mandibular system in pilots is subjected to significant biomechanical forces during flight duties.

Observation:

• A case study focused on a 32-year-old pilot from the Italian Air Force aerobatic team.
• The pilot underwent gnatho-postural treatment at the Istituto Medico Legale A. Mosso.
• A custom resin stabilization splint was fabricated for the pilot's lower arch.

Findings:

• The splint facilitated unobstructed mandibular movements (protrusive, lateral) and ensured occlusal balance.
• Gnatho-postural treatment with a functional diagnostic instrument protected the pilot's masticatory system from dental abrasion.
• Stabilometric platform analysis suggested an improvement in the pilot's posture control system.

Implications:

• Gnatho-postural treatment is a viable protective measure for the masticatory system in air force pilots.
• This therapeutic approach may positively influence the postural control of pilots, enhancing overall performance and well-being.
• Further research into gnatho-postural interventions for aviators is warranted.