Changes in the temporomandibular joint caused by the vertical facial pattern. Study on an experimental model

An experimental model reproducing open bite or verticalized facial pattern was used to study its effect on the temporomandibular joints. 140 Wistar rats were used, divided into 3 groups: bilateral resection of the masseteric muscle, simulated muscular resection and control group. A series of radiological, morphological and histological tests were analyzed. The posterior rotation of the jaw caused by muscular resection although not producing a degenerative effect, did produce specific articular changes in the temporomandibular joint components.