[Immediate and delayed effects of working interferences on human mastication]

Area of Science:

• Biomechanical Engineering
• Dental Mechanics
• Human Physiology

Context:

• Masticatory movements are complex biomechanical processes crucial for oral function.
• Dental interferences, such as metal overlays, can potentially disrupt normal jaw kinematics.
• Understanding these disruptions is vital for prosthodontics and restorative dentistry.

Purpose:

• To investigate the impact of artificial working interferences on masticatory movements in healthy subjects.
• To quantify changes in jaw movement parameters, including border area, closing angle, and cycle axis orientation.
• To assess the temporal adaptation of masticatory function following the introduction of dental overlays.

Summary:

• Metal overlays on premolars and molars altered chewing dynamics, with significant reductions in the mean closing angle and medial orientation of the chewing cycle axis observed immediately after application.
• Subjects exhibited varied responses, including extended or restricted jaw movement ranges, and distinct chewing cycle patterns with altered vertical and horizontal displacements.
• Initial decreases in closing velocity and increases in opening velocity were noted, followed by a consistent increase in both parameters over the study period.

Impact:

• The study reveals that dental overlays induce measurable changes in masticatory biomechanics.
• Findings suggest a period of adaptation in jaw movements following the introduction of artificial occlusal interferences.
• Results provide insights into the neuromuscular control and adaptability of the masticatory system.