Parameters of open-close-clench cycles in children

The results of this study indicate that the latency and silent periods of OCC cycles do not vary among groups representing distinct dentitional stages. The mean latency period durations obtained from the OCC cycles of the subjects in this study ranged from 16.6 to 19.5 msec and demonstrated the smallest SD of all parameters measured. The mean silent period durations ranged from 11.6 to 15.4 msec. Since the neurophysiologic responses do not vary, the reflex elicited by tooth contact in OCC cycles is not based on tooth form or quantity. The results further indicate that, with the exception of the latency period of the anterior temporal muscles, the activities of the right and left components of the masticatory muscles examined are significantly correlated to each other during OCC cycles. This suggests a role for the anterior temporal muscle in bringing about adjustments of the masticatory system in the intercuspal position.