ABSTRACT
Introduction
Individuals with dentofacial deformity (DFD) show impairment in dental occlusion, which may alter the masticatory performance and, consequently, the bite force. No research was found on the relationship between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and bite force for this population.
Purpose
To determine if the presence of TMD symptoms influence the maximum bite force (MBF) in individuals with DFD.
Methods
Sixty individuals were evaluated, 30 with DFD (GDFD) and 30 with normal occlusion (CG). The TMD was assessed by an anamnesis questionnaire (AQ) containing 10 questions that allow classification of the presence and degree of signs and symptoms of TMD. MBF was assessed using a mandibular force sensor, of the EMG System 810c electromyograph. Three records of bite force were obtained, with 10-second duration each. The Spearman correlation coefficient was used, at a significance level of 5%.
Results
The results of AQ showed higher prevalence of TMD symptoms in GDFD in relation to CG. Also, lower MBF was observed in subjects with DFD compared to CG. In addition, negative and significant correlations were found between scores obtained in the application of AQ and the MBF; therefore, the higher the severity of TMD symptoms, the lower the bite force.
Conclusion
The presence and severity of TMD symptoms influenced the MBF in individuals with DFD, demonstrating the importance for interdisciplinary intervention during all stages of surgical-orthodontic treatment.
Dentofacial deformities; Bite force; Temporomandibular joint disorders; Malocclusion; Stomatognathic system
Subtitle: GDFD = group with dentofacial deformity; CG = control group