Myofacial pain dysfunction: a manifestation of the short-face syndrome

The practitioner who treats patients with MPD should be aware that certain anatomic variations may predispose a patient to developing the syndrome. We feel that the newly described entity, the short-face syndrome, is such an example. Patients exhibiting short-face syndrome are overclosed. Their condition appears to be improved by establishing an increased vertical dimension of occlusion. This is first accomplished with the use of a processed acrylic resin occlusal splint. If a patient has been asymptomatic at the new occlusal relationship, a maxillary osteotomy is recommended to achieve a more permanent functional and cosmetic result.