Influence of new complete dentures on the touch perception threshold and quality of life of edentulous patients.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the touch perception threshold of the alveolar mucosa and quality of life of edentulous patients before (T0) and 30 days after (T1) the insertion of new complete dentures. BACKGROUND: Touch perception is important so that edentulous patients can detect the position of complete dentures in their mouth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study included 32 complete denture wearers with good oral and systemic health and no temporomandibular disorders for at least 5 years. At each time point (T0 and T1), two tests were performed (touch perception threshold and quality-of-life scale). The touch perception threshold (Von Frey or Semmes-Weinstein test) was assessed using nylon monofilaments on the regions of the alveolar mucosa of the maxilla and mandible. The Oral Health Impact Profile for edentulous individuals (OHIP-EDENT) was administered to evaluate oral health-related quality of life. RESULTS: In the maxilla and mandible, the touch perception thresholds for all regions of the alveolar mucosa were significantly lower at T1 than at T0. The OHIP-EDENT mean scores showed that the overall quality of life was significantly better at T1 (3.6) than at T0 (4.7), and a significant improvement in quality of life was observed in all domains of the OHIP-EDENT at T1. For touch perception threshold, effect sizes ranged from 0.4 to 0.8; and for quality of life, effect sizes ranged from 0.4 to 1.0. CONCLUSIONS: New complete dentures reduced the touch perception threshold of the alveolar mucosa of both edentulous arches and improved individuals' quality of life.

Abnormal Activity of Masticatory Muscles in Patients with Diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies.

AIMS: to map and synthesize the results from studies that assessed whether individuals diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) have abnormal masseter and temporal muscles activation during the masticatory cycle. METHODS: Six databases were searched for comparative observational studies assessing masticatory muscles activation in individuals with CP through electromyography analysis. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Checklist. Outcome data were combined in meta-analysis using the Review Manager software. RESULTS: We included five cross-sectional studies with an overall low risk of bias. Meta-analyses showed no difference between CP and healthy individuals regarding maximum voluntary isometric contraction: right masseter (Standard mean difference [SMD] - 0.95; 95% CI -2.03 to 0.13); left masseter (SMD -0.92; 95% CI -1.93 to 0.09); right temporal (SMD -0.72; 95% CI -1.63 to 0.18); and left temporal (SMD -0.68; 95% CI -1.76 to 0.40). Electrical activity amplitude in the inactive period was superior in the CP group, and maximum bite pressure presented higher values in the control group (Mean difference [MD] - 17.38; CI 95% -26.62 to -10.15). CONCLUSIONS: Based on observational studies with a lower level of evidence, individuals with CP seem to present difficulties activating masticatory muscles. Future prospective cohort studies with rigorous methodology are still necessary to support these findings. PROSPERO register CRD42020208444.

Clinical reproducibility of different centric relation recording techniques in edentulous individuals: An observational cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: To assess the reproducibility of four different centric relation (CR) recording techniques, and time spent performing each technique in edentulous individuals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four techniques were assessed: extraoral gothic arch (EOGA) tracing, intraoral gothic arch (IOGA) tracing, deglutition (D), and frontal manipulation with tongue elevation (FMTE). Twelve subjects participated in the study; four technique records were performed on each volunteer by the same operator. Each record was repeated three times, in the same period of the day, with a 30 min interval between each technique. The reproducibility of each technique was assessed by the tri-dimensional displacement of the position of the condylar housing (mandible condyle) to the wall of the condylar guide (glenoid cavity) in the semi-adjustable articulator (anteroposterior, mediolateral, and superior-inferior). The time spent on each technique was timed in seconds (from the beginning of each technique until the wax occlusion fixation). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey test were performed for anteroposterior displacement (two-way) and for time spent on CT recording techniques (one-way) (α < 0.05). Regarding mediolateral and superior-inferior displacements, the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis was performed for the comparison between recording methods, whereas the Mann-Whitney test was performed for the comparison between sides (α < 0.05). RESULTS: The factor recording technique interfered with the anteroposterior displacement (ANOVA: α < 0.001; F = 11.396). The technique D (right side: 3.78 ± 0.69 mm; left side: 3.45 ± 0.74 mm) showed a statistically significant difference compared to the other techniques (EOGA: right side: 3.00 ± 0.00 mm; left side: 3.00 ± 0.00 mm; FMTE: right side: 2.81 ± 0.52 mm; left side: 2.82 ± 0.79 mm; IOGA: right side: 2.90 ± 0.65 mm; left side: 3.12 ± 0.44 mm). The time spent on the recording technique influenced the results (ANOVA: α < 0.001; F = 21.118). The IOGA (340.40 ± 163.41 s) and EOGA (285.93 ± 133.84 s) required more time compared to the D (86.00 ± 34.33 s) and FMTE (101.33 ± 36.72 s) techniques. CONCLUSION: Graphic recordings showed better reproducibility and accuracy of the position of the centric relation.

Removable Partial Denture - Functional Impression Techniques: Review.

The objective of this article is to concisely review the main clinical techniques used to make the functional impression to manufacture a removable partial denture. Through this review, the dentist can develop his clinical knowledge.

Effects of rehabilitation with complete dentures on bite force and electromyography of jaw and neck muscles and the correlation with occlusal vertical dimension.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of oral rehabilitation with complete dentures on bite force and electromyography of the suprahyoid and sternocleidomastoid muscles, and their correlation with occlusal vertical dimension (OVD). The research questions were "What are the effects of rehabilitation with complete dentures on bite force and electromyography of suprahyoid and sternocleidomastoid muscles, and how are they correlated with OVD?" MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients who are wearers of unsatisfactory removable complete dentures were attended in three sessions (T0, T1, and T2). At T0, while the patients still wore the old dentures, they were submitted to bite force and surface electromyographic exams of the suprahyoid and sternocleidomastoid muscles. These exams were repeated, and the OVD was measured while the patients wore their old and new prostheses, 30 days after insertion of the new prosthesis (T1). The exams were repeated 100 days after the insertion of the new prosthesis (T2). The data were submitted to the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson correlation and linear regression, all with 5% significance. RESULTS: Fifteen patients participated in the study. No statistically significant difference was observed for bite force or electromyography in T0, T1, or T2. However, the correlation and regression tests showed important interactions between the OVD and maximum voluntary occlusal bite force, as well as the OVD and electromyography during deglutition for the suprahyoid muscles. CONCLUSION: Rehabilitation did not impact bite force nor the activity of the assessed muscles (electromyography). On the other hand, OVD was shown to be an important factor for bite force, and deglutition of water after rehabilitation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study shows what are the influences of rehabilitation on oral functions and reinforces the importance of corrected reestablishment of OVD because it has been found to be an important factor for bite force and electromyography during deglutition.

Assessment of oral hygiene and quality of life of children with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers: an observational clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the degrees of dependence and presence of bacterial plaque in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the quality of life of children and their caregivers. METHOD AND MATERIALS: This was a cross-sectional observational study. This study included 119 individuals with ASD and their caregivers. Data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire, WHOQOL-Bref, and Burden interview to measure quality of life and caregiver burden, respectively. The Autoquestionnaire Qualité de Vie Enfant Imagé questionnaire, adapted in game format, was applied to verify quality of life in children with ASD. An oral clinical examination evaluated the visible plaque index. The collected data were tabulated and organized for statistical analysis with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: It was observed that 52% of the children had a severity of ASD level 1; 70% were dependent for general activities, and 65% were dependent for oral hygiene. Of the 77 children who thoroughly answered the questionnaire about their quality of life, 64.9% had good quality of life, and 35.1% had scores below 48, that is, low quality of life. In general, the caregivers generally presented quality of life with a rate of 60.95 (good) points on the scale. It was observed that gingival bleeding greater than 30% is two (ASD 2 + ASD 3) to three (ASD 3) times more likely to occur in patients who have higher levels of ASD (P < .004). CONCLUSION: It was concluded that the quality of life of individuals with ASD was good, that most children are dependent for their daily activities and oral hygiene, and that they showed reasonable plaque control. On the other hand, the caregivers presented low quality of life and moderate burden.

The Influence of Genetics and Gene Polymorphism on Biological Complications for Dental Implant Survival: A Review.

The objective of this review is to expose the main genetic changes and genetic polymorphisms that may or may not be associated with greater susceptibility to reduced survival of dental implants and, consequently, to their loss. Case-control studies that fully portrayed the specific types of genetic polymorphisms that may be associated with dental implant failure were included by searching in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from 2010 to 2023. The following descriptors and their combinations in English were used to search for articles: "dental implants," "bone genes," "genetics," "polymorphism genetics," "genetic risk factor," and "interleukin." The initial search resulted in 107 results (PubMed n = 47, Scopus n = 14, and Web of Science n = 46). After a manual search, reviewing each article's title and abstract, and excluding duplicates, systematic reviews, and literature reviews, 30 articles were selected. After reading these 30 articles in full, 18 studies that did not describe the specific genetic polymorphism in relation to dental implant survival were excluded. Therefore, 12 articles were included in this review. The genetic polymorphisms of interleukin (IL)-1A, IL-1B, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1 receptor antagonist, tumor necrosis factor-α, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B legend, and cluster of differentiation 14 were analyzed in the included studies. In seven of the studies, a statistically significant correlation between genetic polymorphisms and dental implant failure was observed. Of the polymorphisms studied, IL-1A (-899), IL-1B (+3954), and IL-4 (+33) showed a greater association with dental implant loss.

An alternate impression technique for ocular prostheses.

This article describes an alternative two-step ocular prosthesis impression technique that employs two materials of different consistencies. The method is intended to provide better adaptation to underlying tissues, increased mobility of the prosthesis owing to improvements in facial contours, and improved esthetics, as well as offering the patient greater comfort and security. These advantages and this prosthesis' relative ease of fabrication mean it should be considered as the first step in the management of untreated anophthalmic sockets.

Relationship between self-reported pain, pain threshold, pain catastrophization and quality of life in patients with TMD.

Background: The aim of this study was to verify if there is a relationship between self-reported pain, PPT (pressure pain threshold) of the masseter, temporal and sternocleidomastoid muscles, pain catastrophizing and quality of life in patients with TMD (temporomandibular disorder) of muscular origin. Material and Methods: Ninety-seven patients with muscular TMD (TMD group) and 97 asymptomatic (control group) were included in the study. The evaluation methods used were: 1) Self-reported pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for questions 7, 8 and 9 of the RDC/TMD Axis I questionnaire; 2) The PPT assessment was performed using a digital algometer on the masseter, temporal, and sternocleidomastoid muscles (both sides); 3) Pain catastrophizing was assessed using the PCS (Pain Catastrophizing Scale); and 4) Oral health-related quality of life was assessed using the OHIP-14 (Oral Healthy Impact Profile-14). Data were submitted to Spearman correlation and logistic regression (p<0.05). Results: There were significant positive correlations between self-reported pain (VAS-Q7, VAS-Q8 and VAS-Q9), pain catastrophizing (PCS-Helplessness, PCS-Magnification, PCS-Rumination and PCS-Total) and quality of life (OHIP-14) (p<0.05). There was a significant negative correlation of self-reported pain (VAS-Q8) with PPT of the temporal (left) and sternocleidomastoid (both sides) (p<0.05). The rumination and magnification domains increased the chance of high self-reported pain in all situations (VAS-Q7, VAS-Q8 and VAS-Q9) (p<0.05). The helplessness domain only increased the chance of high self-reported pain for VAS-Q8 (p<0.05). The presence of TMD of muscular origin, high self-reported pain (VAS-Q7) or pain catastrophizing increased the chance of a low quality of life in relation to the control group (p<0.05). In addition, the reduction in sternocleidomastoid PPT increased the chance of poor quality of life (p<0.05). Key words:Myofascial pain syndromes, pain catastrophizing, myalgia, quality of life, surveys and questionnaires, temporomandibular joint disorders.

Effect of Photobiomodulation Combined with Physiotherapy on Functional Performance in Children with Myelomeningo-Cele-Randomized, Blind, Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the electrical activity of the rectus femoris, tibialis anterior, and lateral gastrocnemius muscles during the sit-to-stand task and functional mobility after a neurofunctional physiotherapy protocol associated with PBM. METHODS: Twenty-five children were randomly allocated to either Active PBM + physiotherapy (n = 13) or PBM sham + physiotherapy (n = 12). PBM was carried out with a LED device (850 nm, 25 J, 50 s per point and 200 mW) at four points over the area with absence of a spiny process. Both groups completed a twelve-week supervised program with two weekly 45-60 min sessions. Pre-training and post-training assessments involved the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI). Muscle activity was assessed using portable electromyography (BTS Engineering) and the electrodes were positioned on the lateral gastrocnemius, anterior tibialis, and rectus femoris muscles. The RMS data were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: After 24 sessions of the treatment protocol, improvements were found in the PEDI score. The participants presented greater independence in performing the tasks, requiring less assistance from their caregivers. More significant electrical activity was found in the three muscles evaluated between the rest period and execution of the sit-to-stand tasks, both in the more compromised or less compromised lower limbs. CONCLUSION: Neurofunctional physiotherapy with or without PBM improved functional mobility and electrical muscle activity in children with myelomeningocele.

Use of facial protection to prevent reinjury during sports practice.

The objective of the study was to report the prevention of facial reinjury of a volleyball player using a custom-made protective facial shield. A custom-made protective partial facial shield was fabricated using polymethylmethacrylate and was fitted with a soft lining material to provide additional comfort and protection to the injured area. Facial protection provides greater security against possible facial injuries and allows injured areas to recover during sports practice.

Relationship of bruxism with oral health-related quality of life and facial muscle pain in dentate individuals.

Background: To determine whether there is a correlation of bruxism (sleep, daytime, or both) with oral health-related quality of life and facial pain of muscular origin in dentate individuals. Material and Methods: Seventy-four dentate patients (complete dentition) were included in this study. These individuals had pain in the facial muscles due to temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Smokers; and those with obstructive sleep apnea, TMD of joint origin associated or not with pain, malocclusion, and cancer; and users of illicit drugs, psychiatric medications, and alcohol were excluded. Obstructive sleep apnea, bruxism (of sleep and/or daytime), facial muscle pain, and oral health-related quality of life were assessed by the following questionnaires: Berlin Questionnaire, Pintado et al. questionnaire, VAS (Visual Analog Scale) facial muscle pain questionnaire, and Oral Health Impact Profile - 14. Four groups were created: 1) no bruxism; 2) sleep bruxism; 3) daytime bruxism; and 4) sleep and daytime bruxism. Spearman's correlation test was applied to verify if there was a correlation between the collected data. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was a positive correlation of daytime bruxism with mean pain in the last 3 months (P<0.05) and the worst pain experienced in the last 3 months (P<0.05). Conclusions: Bruxism (sleep, daytime, or both) showed a positive correlation with lower oral health-related quality of life (P<0.05). Key words:Bruxism, facial pain, temporomandibular joint disorders, surveys and questionnaires, health-related quality of life.

Relationship of excessive daytime sleepiness with bruxism, depression, anxiety, stress, and sex in odontology students - A cross sectional study.

Background: To verify if there is a correlation of excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) with bruxism, depression, anxiety, stress, and sex in odontology students. Material and Methods: Four hundred dental students were selected. Students included in the study were those that were healthy, over 18 years old, and with similar weekly academic activities. Students excluded were those with temporomandibular disfunction, a high possibility of possessing obstructive sleep apnea and illnesses that cause EDS; along with smokers, users of illicit drugs, users of psychiatric medication, and those that abuse the consumption of alcohol. After the application of these criteria, 128 students were included in this study. EDS, bruxism, depression, anxiety, and stress were evaluated by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Pintado et al. questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the LIPP Adult Stress Symptom Inventory. Afterwards, the Spearman test (p< 0.05) was applied. Results: A high probability of EDS was present in 33.6% of the students. There was a positive correlation of EDS with females (Rank Correlation= 0.209; p= 0.018) and depression (Rank Correlation= 0.174; p= 0.049); between females and stress (Rank Correlation= 0.199; p= 0.024), and between females and anxiety (Rank Correlation= 0.178; p= 0.045). There was a positive correlation of bruxism with anxiety (Rank Correlation= 0.255; p= 0.004) and stress (Rank Correlation= 0.201; p= 0.023). There was no correlation of EDS with bruxism (p= 0.354), stress (p= 0.277), or anxiety (p= 0.114). There was no correlation of bruxism with females (p= 0.082) or depression (p= 0.362). Conclusions: A high probability of EDS was present in 33.6% of dentistry students, and there was a positive correlation of EDS with females and depression. Key words:Bruxism, depression, anxiety, stress, disorders of excessive somnolence, dentistry.

The Inflammation Level and a Microbiological Analysis of the Anophthalmic Cavities of Unilateral Ocular Prosthesis Users: A Blind, Randomized Observational Study.

Irritation and biofilm adhesion are complaints associated with ocular prosthesis use. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of prosthesis repolishing on several conditions of anophthalmic volunteers. Participants were divided into two groups: intervention (IG, n = 10) and nonintervention (NIG, n = 6) groups. The anophthalmic cavity, contralateral eye, and prosthesis surface were evaluated at initial, day 15, and day 30 after repolishing. Microbiological analysis (colony-forming units), exfoliative cytology (conjunctiva inflammatory cells), sensory analysis (quantitative mechanical sensory test), tear production (Schirmer's test), and conjunctival inflammation (clinical evaluation) were performed. Nonparametric tests were used to compare groups in the initial period and to analyze periods for the IG (p < 0.05). More microorganisms were formed in the anophthalmic socket and prosthesis than in the contralateral eye in the initial period. For IG, the anophthalmic cavity exhibited more microorganisms and inflammatory clinical signs in the initial period than at 15 and 30 after repolishing. The prosthesis showed greater accumulations of total bacteria and Candida albicans in the initial period than at 15 and 30 days after repolishing. The anophthalmic cavity had more palpebral inflammation than the contralateral eye. In conclusion, repolishing reduced the number of microorganisms and inflammatory signs over time.

Non-surgical interventions for the treatment of masticatory muscular spasticity in patients with cerebral palsy. Systematic review of randomized clinical trials.

INTRODUCTION: Muscle disorders caused by cerebral palsy (CP) can affect oral function. The treatment for masticatory muscle spasticity is important to minimize muscle hyperactivity and preclude oral damages. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of non-surgical interventions for the treatment of masticatory muscle spasticity in CP patients. METHODS: A comprehensive search was performed in the following databases: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, LILACS, BBO, PEDro, Clinicaltrials.gov and WHO/ICTRP, without date and language restrictions. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) evaluating non-surgical interventions were considered. Primary outcomes such as masticatory function and adverse events were planned to be assessed. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. RESULTS: Three RCT assessing the effects of botulinum toxin, functional masticatory training and neuromuscular electrostimulation (NMES) were included. Evidence with a very low certainty showed: (i) no difference between botulinum toxin and placebo regarding maximum chewing strength, chewing efficiency and global oral health scale; (ii) improvement in masticatory function in favor of functional masticatory training versus conventional exercises, and (iii) in favor of strengthening exercises plus NMES versus placebo. CONCLUSIONS: There was insufficient evidence to support the use of botulinum toxin and masticatory muscle strengthening programs alone and associated with NMES for the treatment of masticatory muscle in patients with PC. The clinical decision must be individualized, and further studies are needed to support or refute the use of different non-surgical interventions for PC. PROSPERO register number CRD42020209761.

Temporomandibular joint vibration before and after exercises and occlusal splints.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds are frequent in patients. The aim of this study was to analyze patients with clicking at the end of opening and at the beginning of closing their mouths treated by muscular exercises through chewing and by occlusal splints. Fifteen patients with clinically verified clicking and TMJ and 15 patients without sounds were selected by the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. They were submitted to electrovibratography at consultation and 60 and 120 days of treatment by occlusal splints and exercises. Patients demonstrated significant reduction of TMJ sounds after treatment, but vibration intensity was not similar with that of the control group after 120 days.

Impact event and orofacial pain amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: a cross-sectional epidemiological study.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the impact of social isolation, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, on mental health, Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) and orofacial pain in men and women. METHODOLOGY: Individuals living in Brazil answered an online questionnaire on their sociodemographic and behavioral aspects, emotional scale (DASS-21), Impact of Event Scale, and Pain Screener in Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD-Pain Screener) during June 2020. Descriptive statistical analyses and logistic and linear regressions were applied (5% significance). RESULTS: Overall, 2301 individuals were included, 89.1% practiced social isolation, 72.6% were employed/studying, at least 15% presented severe or extremely severe levels of emotional distress and presence of powerful (34.1%) and severe impact event (15%). During the outbreak, 53.2% perceived feeling worse and 31.8% reported that orofacial pain started or worsened after the pandemic outbreak. Gender was associated with "social class" (P=0.036), "pain/stiffness in the jaw on awakening" (P=0.037), "change of pain during jaw habits" (P=0.034) and "perception of change in the situations mentioned in the TMD-Pain Screener" (P=0.020), "depression" (P=0.012), "anxiety" (P=0.006) and "impact of the event" (P=8.3E-11). Social isolation had a lesser chance to change the routine, to be practiced by the unemployed/not studying, and to be practiced by men (all with P<0.001). Associations were found between social class and all subscales of the DASS-21 and IES, all with P<0.001. CONCLUSIONS: The practice of social isolation has social determinants. High levels of psychological and event impacts were detected. The presence of orofacial pain seemed to increase during the health crisis, and there were gender differences in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nerve Growth Factor-Induced Sensitization of the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle and Its Effects on Trigeminal Muscle Sensitivity and Pain Profiles: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Study.

AIMS: To investigate whether localized sensitization of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle using nerve growth factor (NGF) would affect masseter and anterior temporalis muscle sensitivity and pain profiles. METHODS: A total of 28 healthy participants attended two sessions (T0 and T1). At T0, the maximum voluntary occlusal bite force (MVOBF), as well as pressure pain thresholds (PPT), mechanical sensitivity, and referred pain/sensations for the SCM, masseter, and temporalis muscles, were assessed. Participants also completed the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ), and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). After these assessments, 14 participants received an injection of NGF into the SCM, and 14 received an injection of isotonic saline solution. At T1 (48 hours postinjection), the participants were again submitted to the same evaluations. RESULTS: NGF caused significant mechanical sensitization in the SCM (P < .025), but not in the masseter or temporalis muscles (P > .208). It also caused significant increases in NDI score (P = .004). No statistically significant differences were found for MVOBF, frequency of referred pain/sensations, or questionnaire scores (P > .248). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that 48 hours after localized sensitization of the SCM, the primary response is impairment of neck function, but not jaw function.

Treatment of Masticatory Muscle Pain with Acupuncture: Is It Necessary to Associate with Occlusal Splints?

Background: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are treated by different modalities including splints, physiotherapy, and acupuncture. Although all of these offer evidencebased benefits to the patients, avoiding overtreatment is of paramount importance. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of muscle pain treatment with acupuncture combined with or without occlusal splints. Methods: Recruited patients were allocated to G1 (acupuncture) and G2 (acupuncture and occlusal splint) groups and treated in four consecutive weekly sessions (P1, P2, P3, and P4). The reported pain (RP) and the pressure pain threshold (PPT) of the masseter and temporalis muscles were assessed before and after each session. Results: RP decreased after each session in G1, except at P4. In G2, the RP decreased only after the first session, and the PPT did not vary. Conclusion: The assessed treatments did not influence the PPT levels of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscles in patients with temporomandibular disorders. Our findings suggest that occlusal splints may not be mandatory along with the acupuncture treatment.

Masticatory efficiency, bite force and electrical activity of the masseter and temporalis muscles in bodybuilders.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to compare the masticatory efficiency, the maximum voluntary occlusal bite force (MVOBF) and the electrical activity (EMG) of masticatory muscles of practitioners of upper limb bodybuilding before and after physical activity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty healthy individuals (10 men and 10 women, age from 18 to 30 (mean of 24.7 years old) without masticatory system disorders, that regularly practice hypertrophic physical activity were submitted to the analyses of masticatory efficiency, MVOBF, and surface EMG of the temporalis and masseter muscles. The masticatory efficiency was analyzed by comminution of the artificial material (Optocal®) and a sieving method. The MVOBF was measured by a dynamometer, and EMG was evaluated during resting mandibular position, maximum voluntary clenching (MVC), and MVC with a Parafilm M tape between teeth, and free mastication of chewing gum. The analyses were made before (T0) and immediately after the performance of upper limb bodybuilding exercises (T1). The data of masticatory efficiency and MVOBF were submitted to the Student T-test, and their correlations were analyzed by the Pearson correlation test, and the EMG data were submitted to the 2-way repeated measures ANOVA, all tests with a 5% significance. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease of masticatory efficiency after the training. No statistical difference in the MVOBF and EMG was found, and there was a positive correlation between masticatory efficiency and MVOBF. CONCLUSIONS: Therefore, changes were found for masticatory efficiency only, which decreased after hypertrophic exercise. There was a positive correlation between masticatory efficiency and MVOBF. Key words:Masticatory efficiency, bite force, physical activity, electromyography.