Assessment of neuromuscular fatigue through frequency analysis of the electromyographic signal of control participants and those with temporomandibular dysfunction treated with resilient or hard occlusal devices.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Muscle hyperactivity that leads to neuromuscular fatigue can be evaluated by electromyography. Whether treatment with occlusal devices can restore neuromuscular balance to patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) is unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this clinical study was to evaluate neuromuscular fatigue by analyzing the frequency of the electromyographic signal of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscles on both sides in healthy participants and those with TMD treated with a resilient or hard occlusal device. MATERIAL AND METHODS: One hundred asymptomatic participants and 30 with TMD were divided into 2 groups: treated with a hard device or treated with a resilient device. All underwent electromyographic examination before and after treatment with the occlusal devices. RESULTS: In both groups, the results showed statistically significant differences (P<.01) when the fatigue rate before and after treatment with an occlusal device was compared. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with both types of occlusal device was efficient in reducing the rate of neuromuscular fatigue in patients with TMDs.