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Texture-modified diets (TMDs) are a primary compensatory treatment for hospitalized older patients with swallowing and mastication disorders. Nevertheless, the lack of a protocol for evaluating their objective textural properties hampers their industrialization and optimal patient care. Objectives: This study aimed (a) to evaluate the textural properties (maximum force, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness) and biomechanics of food oral processing (mastication cycles, time, and frequency) of ten fork-mashable dishes (Texture E BDA/IDDSI level 6), (b) to explore the impact of oral processing on texture, and (c) to measure the properties of the ready-to-swallow bolus (RSB) in healthy adults. Methods: The textural properties (maximum force, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness) of ten dishes were analyzed with a texture analyzer before and after oral processing (RSB) in five healthy adults (30 ± 3.9, 3 women). Surface electromyography was used to measure mastication cycles, time, and frequency. Results: The pre-mastication Texture Profile Analysis (TPA)-averaged values of maximum force ranged from 0.65 to 2.73 N, cohesiveness was 0.49–0.87, and adhesiveness was 0.01–0.95 N·s. Masticatory Cycles (46.87–19.13 MC) and time (36.73–15.80 S) from whole samples to RSB greatly and significantly differed among dishes, although frequency did not (1.68–1.11 MC/T). Post-mastication RSB TPA-averaged values of maximum force ranged from 0.70 to 2.24 N; cohesiveness, 0.49–0.73; and adhesiveness, 0.01–1.14 N·s. Conclusions: Despite all dishes being classified by the same qualitative descriptor (BDA level E/IDDSI level 6), there was a large and significant variation in their textural properties (maximum force, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness) when measured in SI units. In addition, in healthy adults, the masticatory cycles and time to achieve RSB greatly differed, whereas masticatory frequency remained quite constant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Occlusal stabilization splints (OSSs) are first-line therapy for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and sleep-related-bruxism (SRB). The main goal of this study was to quantify adherence rates to OSS therapy in TMD patients and among non-painful conditions such as clenching and bruxism. It was hypothesized that adherence rates would be similar to those for other chronic conditions. Method and materials: Medical records of 99 patients seen in the Orofacial Pain Clinic between 2006 and 2014 were reviewed. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were interviewed over the telephone regarding OSS adherence. Results: Of the 99 patients interviewed, 80 had chronic orofacial pain related to TMD and 19 received OSS due to (non-painful) SRB. Patients were divided according to usage; the USER group (58 patients, 58.6%) used their OSS for more than 1 year; the NUSE group was the remaining 41 (41.4%) patients who used their device for less than 1 year. Of the patients with pain as the reason for OSS use, 50 (62.5%) were in the USER group and 30 (37.5%) were in the NUSE group. The most common diagnosis was masticatory muscle disorders (MMD) with a 71.4% adherence rate, representing 60.3% of the USER group, which was significantly higher than those with SRB and other facial pain (P = .039). The most common reasons for non-adherence were sleep difficulties with OSS (31.6%) and resolution of the problem (25%). Conclusions: Patients reporting mild to major pain reduction had higher adherence rates than those with complete pain relief or none at all. Patients with MMD exhibited higher adherence rates than those with other facial pain types and SRB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial in the Journal of Oral Implantology discusses the complexities and controversies surrounding the concept of occlusion in dentistry. It highlights the historical development of ideas related to parafunction and functional occlusion, emphasizing the need for a more holistic approach to understanding the mastication system. The article suggests that the dental community should move beyond the narrow focus on occlusal surfaces and consider other crucial factors contributing to mastication disorders, such as dental compression syndrome. The author calls for a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of occlusion to address the confusion surrounding this topic. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: To evaluate mastication in a group of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) with a control group, by means of the prevalence of reverse chewing cycles (RCCs). Material and Methods: This study included a group of patients (N = 32; F = 24; M = 8; mean age ± SD = 14 ± 3 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of AIS and a group of control subjects (N = 32; F = 24; M = 8; mean age ± SD = 13 ± 6 years) without spinal disorders. Mastication was recorded with both a hard and a soft bolus, following a standardized protocol, and the prevalence of RCCs was compared between the groups. Results: The prevalence of RCCs was significantly higher in the AIS group, with both a soft and a hard bolus, compared to the control group (P <.001). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the presence of AIS influences mastication, one of the main functions of the stomatognathic system. A multidisciplinary approach to these patients may be relevant in providing the best possible treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary concern in carrying out dental implant treatment in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia is the development of peri-implantitis. However, currently, the advent of molecular-targeted drugs such as nilotinib markedly improves the survival rates in such patients, and it is reported that remission status can be maintained for a long time without abnormalities such as a decrease in white blood cell count. This case history report discusses an 8-year follow-up of implant treatment administered during the remission phase of chronic myelogenous leukemia maintained using nilotinib. A 56-year-old male patient who was undergoing treatment for chronic myelogenous leukemia at the Department of Hematology requested a dental consultation for the treatment of a mastication disorder due to loss of mandibular left molars. After confirming via oral and radiographic examination that there were no abnormalities such as periodontal disease, temporomandibular joint symptoms, or metal allergy, two Brånemark System Mk III implants with diameters of 3.75 and 5 mm and lengths of 10 and 8.5 mm, respectively, were embedded in the defect. Following this, no problems were observed in the general condition, esthetics, or oral function around the implant. Further, symptoms such as mobility of the implant body or inflammation of the surrounding tissue have not appeared to this day, as the molecular-targeted drug decreases the occurrence of immunosuppression, which could not be achieved conventionally. Although this is only one instance, the possibility of implant treatment for chronic myelogenous leukemia patients in the remission phase has been presented in this case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to test the hypothesis that there are no statistically significant differences after 3 and 6 months in masticatory performance or chewing ability of people with new complete dentures made by an abbreviated or a conventional technique.Materials and Methods: The trial included 20 edentulous participants at a dental school in Brazil assigned randomly to receive dentures made by either a conventional technique involving six clinical sessions or by an abbreviated technique involving three clinical sessions. At baseline with old dentures and at 3 and 6 months with new dentures, masticatory performance was measured by counting the number of chewing strokes and the time before participants had an urge to swallow and by calculating the medium particle size of a silicone material after 20 chewing strokes and at the urge to swallow. On each occasion, the participants recorded on visual analog scales their ability to chew five food textures. Statistical significance (P ≤ .05) of changes in masticatory performance and chewing ability during the trial were analyzed with generalized estimating equations.Results: Both techniques improved masticatory performance between baseline and 6 months and the ability to bite and chew all foods apart from hard apples.Conclusion: There were no significant differences in masticatory performance or chewing ability after 6 months between complete dentures made by a conventional or an abbreviated technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A constricted chewing pattern can result in abnormal anterior wear, open interproximal contacts, diasternas. or temporomandibular disorder symptoms, which wlien combined with a deep bite often limits esthetic restorative options and requires orthodontic correction. This article discusses the case of a female patient with a constricted chewing pattern. severely worn mandibular teeth, and wide spaces on the niaxilla closed with unestlietic crowns. The case report provides the step-by-step details necessary to transform a dentition with existing dental treatment and an unfavorable occlusion into one with a stable occlusion with a restored. beautiful smile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor oral health has been linked to coronary heart disease (CHD). Clustering clinical oral conditions routinely recorded in adults may identify their CHD risk profile. Participants from the Paris Prospective Study 3 received, between 2008 and 2012, a baseline routine full-mouth clinical examination and an extensive physical examination and were thereafter followed up every 2 y until September 2020. Three axes defined oral health conditions: 1) healthy, missing, filled, and decayed teeth; 2) masticatory capacity denoted by functional masticatory units; and 3) gingival inflammation and dental plaque. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed with multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models and adjusted for age, sex, smoking, body mass index, education, deprivation (EPICES score; Evaluation of Deprivation and Inequalities in Health Examination Centres), hypertension, type 2 diabetes, LDL and HDL serum cholesterol (low- and high-density lipoprotein), triglycerides, lipid-lowering medications, NT-proBNP and IL-6 serum level. A sample of 5,294 participants (age, 50 to 75 y; 37.10% women) were included in the study. Cluster analysis identified 3,688 (69.66%) participants with optimal oral health and preserved masticatory capacity (cluster 1), 1,356 (25.61%) with moderate oral health and moderately impaired masticatory capacity (cluster 2), and 250 (4.72%) with poor oral health and severely impaired masticatory capacity (cluster 3). After a median follow-up of 8.32 y (interquartile range, 8.00 to 10.05), 128 nonfatal incident CHD events occurred. As compared with cluster 1, the risk of CHD progressively increased from cluster 2 (hazard ratio, 1.45; 95% CI, 0.98 to 2.15) to cluster 3 (hazard ratio, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.34 to 4.57; P < 0.05 for trend). To conclude, middle-aged individuals with poor oral health and severely impaired masticatory capacity have more than twice the risk of incident CHD than those with optimal oral health and preserved masticatory capacity (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00741728). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current systematic review was to summarize and to evaluate the available information on the effectiveness of oral exercise in improving the masticatory function of people ≥18 y. Electronic databases (Medline, Embase, CENTRAL) and gray literatures were searched (up to December 2020) for relevant randomized and nonrandomized controlled clinical trials. Two reviewers independently conducted the study selection, data extraction, and quality assessments. Meta-analysis was conducted for the comparison of bite force and masticatory performance using mean difference (MD) and standardized mean difference (SMD), respectively. GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) assessment was adopted for collective grading of the overall body of evidence. Of the 1,576 records identified, 18 studies (21 articles) were included in the analysis. Results of meta-analysis indicated that oral exercise could significantly improve the mean bite force of the participants (parallel comparison: MD, 41.2; 95% CI, 11.6-70.7, P = 0.006; longitudinal comparison: MD, 126.5; 95% CI, 105.2-144.9, P < 0.001). However, the improvement in masticatory performance was not significant (parallel comparison: SMD, 0.11; 95% CI, -0.20 to 0.42, P = 0.48; longitudinal comparison: SMD, 0.4; 95% CI, -0.11 to 0.91, P = 0.13). Results of meta-regression showed that greater improvements in bite force can be achieved among younger adults and with more intensive exercise. Chewing exercise is the most effective oral exercise, followed by clenching exercise, while simple oral exercise may not have a significant effect. Based on the results of the meta-analysis and GRADE assessment, a weak recommendation for people with declined masticatory function to practice oral exercise is made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of 17-year-old female patient with complaint of the appearance of her discolored teeth and patient reported pain during mastication and speech clarity impairment. The patient presented an excessive gingival display and composite restoration and prosthodontic treatment, orthodontic brackets were placed in the maxilla to enhance the canine eruption. It mentions radiographic examination revealed missing enamel and restorations with secondary caries.

Purpose: To evaluate the outcome of two (fixed-on-2 = FO2) versus three (fixed-on-3 = FO3) implants placed flapless in fully edentulous jaws and immediately restored with metal-resin screw-retained crossarch prostheses. Materials and methods: Forty edentulous or to be rendered edentulous patients (20 in the maxilla and 20 in the mandible) were randomised to the FO2 group (20 patients: 10 in the maxilla and 10 in the mandible) and to the FO3 group (20 patients: 10 in the maxilla and 10 in the mandible) according to a parallel group design. To be immediately loaded, implants had to be inserted with a minimum torque of 60 Ncm. Outcome measures were prosthesis and implant failures, complications and periimplant marginal bone level changes evaluated up to 1-year post-loading. Results: Flaps were raised in four patients and two prostheses were loaded early at 8 weeks in the FO2 group. One year after loading no dropout or implant failure occurred, however one FO2 maxillary prosthesis had to be remade because of repeated screw-loosening (risk difference = 0.05; 95% CI: -0.05 to 0.15; Fisher's exact test P = 1.000). Three FO2 patients were affected by complications versus five FO3 patients (risk difference = -0.1; 95% CI: -0.35 to 0.15; Fisher's exact test; P = 0.695). There were no statistically significant differences for prosthetic failures and complications between groups. There were no statistically significant differences for marginal peri-implant bone levels between the two groups (estimate of the difference = 0.031 mm; 95% Cl: -0.22 to 0.28; P (ancova) = 0.803), with both groups losing marginal bone in a statistically significant way (0.27 mm for FO2 patients and 0.24 mm for FO3 patients). Conclusions: These preliminary results suggest that immediately loaded cross-arch prostheses can be supported by only two or three dental implants at least up to 1-year post-loading. Longer follow-ups are needed to properly evaluate both these therapeutic options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been marked improvements in oral health in Korea during the past 10 years, including chewing ability. We sought to disentangle age, period, and cohort effects in chewing ability between 2007 and 2018. We analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The main variable was chewing difficulty, which was assessed among participants aged 20 years and older. APC analysis revealed three trends in chewing difficulty: (1) there was an increase in chewing difficulty starting at around 60 years of age (age effect), (2) there was a steady decrease in chewing difficulty during the observation period (period effect), and (3) chewing ability improved with each successive generation born after 1951 (cohort effect). Regarding recent improvements in chewing ability, cohort effects were somewhat more important than period effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for support and care is a major problem facing societies around the world. Locomotive syndrome (LS) refers to a condition in which people require healthcare services because of problems associated with locomotion. Oral dysfunction is also associated with various long-term care factors including activities of daily living. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between oral dysfunction and LS. The study participants were 407 elderly people living in a rural area in Japan. Evaluation of oral dysfunction was based on subjective judgment by each participant. LS was assessed using Locomo-25, which is a self-administered questionnaire and was defined by a Locomo-25 score ≥ 7 points. Those with a "decline in masticatory function" and "difficulty swallowing" had higher odds of LS than those without these dysfunctions (odds ratio (OR) = 2.134, 2.007, respectively). Furthermore, participants with a Locomo-25 score ≥ 11 had higher odds of a "decline in masticatory function" (OR = 2.657) than those with a Locomo-25 score < 11, and those with a Locomo-25 score ≥ 9 had higher odds of "difficulty swallowing" (OR = 2.411) than those with a Locomo-25 score < 9. These findings suggest that a strong relationship exists between oral dysfunction and LS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the patient-centered rehabilitation of edentulism with dental implants. Topics include the problems created by complete edentulism, the use of elective surgery to repair dental problems, and the optimal number of implants that can be implanted in patients. Information is provided on bone augmentation discomfort and the primary implant stability.

Background and aim: There is now overwhelming evidence from systematic reviews that a two-implant overdenture is the first choice of treatment for the edentulous mandible. Conversely, consensus is lacking for implant-supported maxillary overdentures. Therefore, we systematically reviewed the treatment outcome of concepts used for implant-supported maxillary overdentures, focusing on the survival of implants, survival of maxillary overdentures and condition of the implant surrounding hard and soft tissues after a mean observation period of at least 1 year. Material and methods: MEDLINE (1950 to December 2013), EMBASE (1966 to December 2013) and CENTRAL (1800 to December 2013) were searched to identify eligible studies. Two reviewers independently assessed the articles using specific study design-related quality assessment forms. Results: Out of 195 primarily selected articles, 24 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A meta-analysis showed an implant survival rate of 98.1% and overdenture survival of 99.5% per year in the case of ≥ 6 implants and a splinted (bar) anchorage. In the case of ≤ 4 implants and a splinted (bar) anchorage, implant survival rate and overdenture survival were 97.0% and 96.9% per year, respectively. In the case of ≤ 4 implants and a non-splinted anchorage (ball, locator, telescopic crown), implant survival rate and overdenture survival were 88.9% and 98.8% per year, respectively. The condition of the peri-implant tissues was not reported in most studies. Conclusions: An implant-supported maxillary overdenture (all studies ≥ 4 implants) provided with a splinted anchorage is accompanied with a high implant and overdenture survival rate (both >95% per year), while there is an increased risk of implant loss when ≤ 4 implants with a non-splinted anchorage are used. Conflict-of-interest statement: None declared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Full fixed prosthesis on a limited number of implants (FFP) are a viable treatment option for edentulous patients with a reduced amount of residual bone. Jaw muscular function in FFP patients has been evaluated in several studies, however heterogeneous data emerge from literature. Purpose: The aim of this review of the literature was to assess the function of jaw muscles in edentulous patients restored with full fixed prostheses on a limited number (≤ 6) of implants, as compared to dentate subjects and subjects wearing dentures, implant-supported overdentures or full fixed prostheses supported by more than six implants. Materials and methods: An electronic search of databases up to December 2013 was performed. The articles were selected using specific inclusion criteria, independent of the study design. Results: A total of 1598 records were identified. After removing the duplicates and excluding records based on title and abstract, only 37 eligible records were identified. After full-text review, seventeen studies were selected for analysis according to the inclusion criteria. From the included studies, only one evaluated masseter muscle thickness in a cross sectional study by means of ultrasound, while the 16 remaining papers evaluated muscular function by using electromyography (EMG). Those studies analysed several heterogeneous parameters throughout the execution of five functional tests and were therefore described and pooled according to the following task categories: clenching; swallowing; reflex and fatigue for statics; and chewing for dynamics. Conclusions: The results of selected studies seem to indicate that, compared to dentate controls, FFP patients display a global satisfactory neuromuscular equilibrium in static activities, but still have some impairment during chewing. Conflict-of-interest statement: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate patient satisfaction, oral health-related quality of life, and patients’ preferences towards minimally invasive treatment options for graftless rehabilitation of complete edentulism by means of dental implants. Material and methods: A MEDLINE search of literature in the English language up to the year 2013 was performed to summarise current evidence from the patient’s perspective. The final selection included 37 studies reporting on minimally invasive implant treatment of 648 edentulous maxillae and 791 edentulous mandibles in 1328 patients, via a total of 5766 implants. Results: Patient satisfaction averaged 91% with flapless implant placement (range: 77 to 100%), 89% with short implants, 87% with narrow-diameter implants (range: 80 to 93%), 90% with a reduced number of implants (range: 77 to 100%), 94% with tilted implant placement (range: 58 to 100%), and 83% with zygomatic fixtures (range: 50 to 97%). Indirect comparison yielded patient preference towards tilted implant placement compared to a reduced number of implants (P = 0.036), as well as to zygomatic implants (P = 0.001). Conclusions: While little evidence on patients’ preferences towards minimally invasive treatment alternatives vs. bone augmentation surgery could be identified from within-study comparison, it may be concluded that patient satisfaction with graftless solutions for implant rehabilitation of completely edentulous jaws is generally high. Comparative effectiveness research is needed to substantiate their positive appeal to potential implant patients and possible reduction of the indication span for invasive bone graft surgery. Conflict-of-interest notification: The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cranio-mandibular osteopathy is an idiopathic cranian hyperostosis condition, self-limiting, affecting young growing canines up to one year of age. This condition is characterized by the production of new bone, with an irregular appearance and symmetrical distribution, usually affecting the mandible, possibly extending to the temporomandibular joint and/or tympanic bulla. The clinical presentation and imaging findings are variable, depending on the bones involved and the severity of the new bone production. The information regarding the breed and age of the patient, in conjunction with imaging aspects regarding the appearance and location of cranian hyperostosis, are sufficient data to establish the diagnosis. The prognosis depends on the bones involved and the severity of new bone production, and the treatment aims at reducing prehension and mastication disorders caused by the development of hyperostosis, as well as ensuring the patient’s nutritional support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TMD is often viewed as a repetitive motion disorder of the structures of mastication, with many similarities to musculoskeletal disorders of other parts of the body, and is therefore treated with similar therapeutic approaches. The combination of splinting, physical therapy, medication therapy, and behaviour modification as first-line conservative strategies has been reported as effective in up to 86% of these patients with disc displacement who become pain-free and regain acceptable function with this strategy. Following is a case report of a 55-year-old female presenting with progressive disc derangement tendencies managed using anterior positioning splint. This case report potentiates the practice of employing occlusal splints for initial non-surgical management of disc derangement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of chronic morbidity and mortality worldwide. The coexistence of COPD and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) has been noted, and dysfunctional mastication resulting from TMD can worsen individuals' nutritional status. This association between COPD and TMD has been rarely discussed in previous studies. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether osteoporosis increases the risk of TMD in COPD and whether anti-osteoporosis medications can prevent TMD. Materials and methods: This retrospective nationwide population-based study utilized the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. We enrolled 52,652 COPD patients between 2000 and 2015: 13,163 with osteoporosis and 39,489 without osteoporosis. Groups of COPD patients with and without osteoporosis were age- and sex-matched. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to evaluate the risk of TMD development in COPD patients with and without osteoporosis over 15 years. Results: There was a higher risk of TMD occurrence in COPD patients with osteoporosis than in those without osteoporosis (adjusted hazard ratio 2.564, P < 0.001) after adjusting for demographic variables and associative comorbidities. Osteoporosis, hypertension, vertebral compression fracture, and nonpsychotic mental disorders were risk factors contributing to TMD development in patients with COPD. Anti-osteoporosis medications were associated with the prevention of TMD development concomitant with osteoporosis and COPD (adjusted hazard ratio 0.617, P = 0.004). Conclusions: Patients with COPD and osteoporosis are at a higher risk of developing TMD, and anti-osteoporosis medications can prevent the development of TMD in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Korean National Health Insurance expanded the dental insurance in 2012 to cover denture services for older adults. We analyzed whether the new policy improved of chewing ability in the eligible population. We used regression discontinuity (RD), a quasi-experimental design, to analyze the effects of the expanded dental insurance. We analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2010 and 2015. The study population consisted of two groups: the treatment group, aged 65 and above who were eligible; and the control group, under 65 years of age who were not eligible for the dental insurance benefit. The main outcome evaluated was self-reported chewing difficulty. The RD analysis showed that in 2015, the chewing difficulty in aged above 65 was 2.2% lower than in those aged under 65. However, the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.76). The results from the falsification testing of predetermined covariates, placebo cut-offs, and bandwidths validated our main conclusion. The expansion of dental insurance benefits to include dentures for the older adults did not improve the chewing ability in the eligible population. Future studies should evaluate long-term outcomes of oral health as well as the social impacts on the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Older adults with disorders of mastication and swallowing are often fed soft foods such as jelly or puree. The texture of such semi-solid foods allows them to be squeezed between the tongue and palate rather than being chewed. However, it is difficult to visually identify such strategies for the oral processing of food. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that there is a difference in the sequential coordination between the masseter and supra-hyoid muscles, and to identify feeding behaviors such as chewing and squeezing using electromyography. Seventeen male subjects (mean age: 30.8 years) were recruited. Four kinds of gels were prepared (two kinds of fracture force and fracture strain) as test samples. Subjects were instructed to consume the gels in three ways: squeezing with the tongue, chewing with the teeth and eating freely until swallowing. The amount of squeezing/chewing and the consumption time was unlimited. The masseter and supra-hyoid muscle activity were recorded during the entire consumption time and videofluorography was simultaneously recorded during each ingestion. Lissajous figures were made from the electromyographic activity of the two groups of muscles during the first stroke, and a regression line was made to determine the gradient of each figure to compare squeezing and chewing using the Mann–Whitney U -test. The masseter and supra-hyoid muscles were active simultaneously during squeezing with the tongue. However, the masseter was active after the supra-hyoid during chewing. The gradient of the regression line from the Lissajous figures between the masseter and supra-hyoid muscle activity was positive during squeezing, but negative during chewing. Analysis of the ROC curve showed that the cutoff value of the gradient for differentiating feeding behaviors was 0.097, with a sensitivity of 95.3% and specificity of 98.4%. When we allocated 68 free intakes into squeezing and chewing according to this cutoff value, we could distinguish with good precision, and the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were 86.8, 91.1, and 66.7% respectively. These results suggest that certain aspects of muscle activity differed among oral processing methods. Lissajous analysis of muscle activity was useful for identifying ingestion behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the concept of intraoral welding as a suitable technique for the placement of a final restoration in the edentulous patient on the same day as surgery. Method and Materials: Any patient with a completely edentulous arch who was considered eligible received a fixed restoration supported by an intraorally welded titanium bar. Definitive abutments were connected to the implants and then welded to a titanium bar using an intraoral welding unit. This framework was used to support the definitive acrylic restoration, which was fitted on the same day as implant placement. Restoration and implant success, mean marginal bone loss, pocket probing depth, and bleeding on probing were assessed over a 36-month follow-up period. Results: Twenty-six patients with an edentulous maxilla and 34 patients with an edentulous mandible, with a mean age of 57.1 years (SD = 17.9, n = 60), were consecutively treated with 324 immediately loaded implants. No fractures or radiographically detectable alteration of the welded framework was evident. A total of 321 (99.1%) implants osseointegrated and were clinically stable at the 6-month follow-up. At the 36-month follow-up, the accumulated mean marginal bone loss was, respectively, 0.967 mm (SD = 0.361) for the maxillary cases and 1.016 mm (SD = 0.413) for the mandibular cases. Conclusions: It is possible on the same day of surgery to successfully rehabilitate the edentulous patient with a fixed definitive prosthesis supported by an intraorally welded titanium framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Implant stability has been identified as a factor that may influence the achievement of osseointegration. The aim of this study was to compare the stability of titanium dioxide grit-blasted (TB) dental implants, with fluoride treatment (FTB) and without, over the first 24 weeks following implant placement. Materials and Methods: Subjects were edentulous patients visiting a university prosthodontics department over a 6-month period seeking mandibular overdentures retained by two implants. Each patient received two implants in the mandible: one TB and one FTB. All implants were placed by the same surgeon. TB implants were placed in the right canine region and FTB implants were placed in the left canine region. Resonance frequency analysis (RFA) was performed at the time of implant placement and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postplacement. Results: Twenty-seven patients were enrolled. TB implants showed fluctuations in RFA values during the first 6 weeks, whereas the RFA values of FTB implants remained stable throughout the study period. Conclusions: FTB implants did not exhibit the early decreases in RFA values seen in TB implants. Larger studies are necessary to confirm this finding and determine whether this will affect clinical loading protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information about some of the topics discussed at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the European Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders in 2008 is presented. Topics include updates on head and neck pain including migraine and cluster headaches and links of orofacial pain with masticatory and neck muscles. The use of neuroimaging in diagnosing orofacial pain, the difficult diagnosis of neuropathic pain, and links between work and myogenous masticatory pain were also discussed. The meeting featured presentations by Mauro Farella, Craig Miller, David Linden and others.

Edentulism in the posterior maxilla can present with compounding variables that make it a difficult region to restore with implants. Pneumatization of the sinus floor is typically accounted for during surgical treatment planning, but other factors such as horizontal ridge deficiency and vertical defects may be overlooked. This report reviews the different classifications used to treat the posterior maxilla and introduces a new system that incorporates all factors critical for implant success. Class A represents abundant bone with ? 10 mm bone height below the sinus floor and ? 5 mm bone width, allowing proper implant placement. Class B indicates barely sufficient bone with 6 to 9 mm bone height below the sinus floor, and this can be further subclassified into division h (horizontal defect; < 5 mm bone width), division v (vertical defect; > 3 mm away from cementoenamel junction), and division c (combined horizontal and vertical defect). Class C indicates compromised bone with ? 5 mm bone height below the sinus floor, and this can also be subclassified similar to Class B. The ABC classification is a simple system to guide clinicians in proper implant treatment of the posterior maxilla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Restorative therapy of edentulous mandibles with residual ridge resorption is still a great challenge. Even though implant-supported stabilization of dentures has proved to be of value in these cases, treatment is sometimes problematic, not only due to narrow width of the denture-bearing areas but also because elderly patients are often averse to surgery. Implants with a normal length but a reduced diameter might facilitate therapy in patients with implant-supported dentures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical success of implants with a small diameter. Materials and Methods: In a prospective study, patients were provided with 2 implants 2.5 mm in diameter (MicroPlant; Brasseler, Lemgo, Germany) in a 2-stage procedure in the intraforaminal area of the edentulous mandible. Subsequently, the patients were monitored in periodic recalls. Periotest value, Gingival Index, and attachment level were monitored at these recall evaluations. Peri-implant bone loss was measured using panoramic radiographs. Patients rated the functionality of their denture using questionnaires administered before and after treatment. Results: Sixty-seven patients were monitored during an average observation time of 6 years (SD 2.7). The cumulative survival rate of the implants was 95.5%. Clinical and radiographic parameters yielded results comparable to those of implants with a larger diameter. The questionnaire revealed sharp and significant improvement in denture retention and chewing ability after denture stabilization with the implants. Conclusion: The clinical data and the results of the questionnaire clearly indicated that the patients were satisfied with the concept of stabilization of complete mandibular dentures with small-diameter implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the clinical application of a new superelastic Ni-Ti-stainless steel retraction spring used especially for canine retraction following the segmented archwire technique. The use of the new spring and its 2 configurations are demonstrated in a typodont experiment. Clinical experience with the new spring is presented in 2 patients; it produced canine retraction in these patients who required first premolar extraction. The use of the spring in both cases led to bodily tooth retraction without reactivation or any undesirable side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess and compare clinical outcome results of tooth-implant-supported fixed and removable partial dentures in a selected population group of partially edentulous patients. Biological and technical complications were recorded and reviewed. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of the dental charts of 224 patients (174 men, 50 women) with a mean age of 51.3 years was carried out. The evaluation included details regarding the survival and technical complications of the prescribed prostheses, as well as the biological and technical complications associated with both types of abutments used, ie, teeth and implants. Results: A total of 229 prostheses were supported by 459 implants and 449 teeth. They were monitored for a period of 2 to 10 years (median follow-up time: 6.7 years). At the end of the different observation periods, 14% of the tooth-implant-supported prostheses had undergone technical modifications, with no statistical difference in the occurrence of technical complications between the 2 types of prosthesis. Three of the functionally loaded implants were removed, while 23 abutment teeth were lost (15 had undergone endodontic treatment). Abutment teeth with a reduced attachment level after prosthesis insertion were significantly affected by biological complications (P = .04). Conclusions: The survival data for both types of prosthesis were comparable to prostheses supported solely by implants. There was no difference in the complication rate between primary splinting (fixed) and secondary splinting with telescopic systems (removable). A greater risk of biological complications was recorded for endodontically treated abutments or teeth with a reduced attachment level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This clinical article describes a case of dental rehabilitation using an implant-carrying plate system (EPITEC) for a patient with severely resorbed edentulous maxilla and microstomia. In this case, the presence of microstomia prevented bone augmentation procedures through an intraoral approach. Treatment using 2 endosseous implants inserted in the canine regions and an implant-supported overdenture was planned. However, endosseous implants were not feasible on the right side because of insufficient available bone volume. An implant-carrying plate system was then utilized on the right side. Four months later, an implant-supported ball-attachment overdenture was fabricated. At the 2-year follow-up, the clinical course remained uneventful, and the patient remained satisfied with the treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose:This study aimed to assess the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and associated variables among adolescents from 16 to 18 years of age in their senior year of high school in the city of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, in 2005. Materials and Methods:The studied variables were gender, self-esteem and nervous behavior, type of occlusion, and use of orthodontic appliances. In this cross-sectional study, the nonpatient population comprised 410 adolescents attending private and state schools. The data collection was conducted using 2 questionnaires, the first of which was used to evaluate the prevalence of TMD and the second to assess self-esteem. A clinical examination was conducted for the occlusion aspect of the evaluation. Results: The prevalence of TMD was 16.3% in the study group and there was no statistical difference between occlusions judged as normal or as malocclusions ( P= .1148). There was a statistically significant association between students who had previously undergone orthodontic treatment and TMD (P = .0033, odds ratio: 3.08). The students classified in the low self-esteem group showed a significant increase in TMD ( P= .0140). The group that classified themselves as nervous also showed an increase (P = .0034), with a higher prevalence also found in females ( P= .0021). Conclusions:This study suggests that low self-esteem and gender may be more frequently related than dental factors to TMD in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of positive radiographic findings in panoramic radiographs of edentulous arches. Method: A sample of 327 panoramic radiographs was selected from the patient pool at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Radiographs were evaluated for presence of retained root tips, impacted teeth, radiolucent and radiopaque areas, soft tissue calcifications, and foreign bodies. Results: Approximately 57.5% of panoramic radiographs revealed no positive radiographic findings, while the remaining 42.5% contained 1 or more positive radiographic findings. Thirty-nine root fragments were identified, and the majority were located in the maxilla. However, only 5 pathological findings (3.8%) required treatment modification before denture fabrication. Conclusions: Results of the study do not support routine pretreatment panoramic radiography on patients seeking denture fabrication. Panoramic radiography is a valuable diagnostic tool in the pretreatment assessment of partially and completely edentulous patients, but their routine use in such patients should be discouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) often report impaired eating, the features of food intake difficulty have rarely been estimated. This study compared subjective difficulty in 4 categories of food intake situations among 3 subgroups of TMD patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 511 TMD patients (402 women, 109 men, mean age 36.4 ± 15.4, range 12 to 82) participated in this study. Subjects were divided into 3 TMD subgroups: myofascial pain (MFP), disc displacement with/without reduction (DD), and arthralgia or osteoarthritis (Arth). Patients' level of food intake difficulty was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) for 4 categories of food intake situations: difficulty in putting food into mouth (PUT), difficulty in biting off foods (BIT), difficulty in grinding down foods (GRD), and overall difficulty in consuming a meal (OAL). Results: Nearly all patients (98.6%) exhibited food intake difficulty in at least 1 category. In the category of PUT, the DD group exhibited significantly more difficulty than the MFP and Arth groups ( P< .048), and the Arth group had a higher VAS score than the MFP group ( P= .030). With regard to BIT and GRD, there was no significant difference among the TMD subgroups. In OAL, the DD group showed more difficulty than the MFP group ( P= .046). Conclusion: TMD patients experienced impaired food intake ability. In particular, the DD group experienced more difficulty than the MFP group. Concerns about types of food and food intake behavior for each TMD subtype should be taken into account in the management of TMD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of mandibular fracture in senior citizens with severely resorbed edentulous mandibles is extremely difficult. Such treatment must achieve successful osteosynthesis and restore functional mastication. A severely resorbed (Class V) mandible was successfully reconstructed with an autogenous bone graft on the inferior border of the mandible and a titanium mesh plate after a failed attempt to fix the fracture. After the placement of endosseous implants in the mandible, the patient was rehabilitated with an overdenture to restore masticatory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of oral moisturizing gel (Oral Balance) in xerostomic patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS). Method and materials: Twenty-one xerostomic patients with primary SS were subjected to a single-blind trial in which the efficacy of Oral Balance gel in reducing xerostomia and xerostomia-related oral symptoms was compared with that of a placebo. Both gels were packaged identically and were indiscernible in appearance and taste. Xerostomia was confirmed for all the patients through measurement of stimulated whole saliva. Patients began using the Oral Balance gel three times a day for 90 days, and were then switched to a gel placebo to be used in the same way for the same length of time. Clinical response was evaluated through the patients' subjective assessment (improved, worsened, or unaltered) of both gels. Results: Neither the Oral Balance gel nor the gel placebo affected the salivary output of the patients. The Oral Balance gel presented a substantial statistically significant advantage in the control of burning mouth, mastication, and swallowing. No statistically significant relief of the isolated sensation of oral dryness was established. Conclusion: Oral Balance is a useful tool in the management of dryness-related oral symptoms in primary SS, but there is room for enhancing the overall properties of topical preparations designed to reduce oral complaints in xerostomic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To analyze predictors of bruxism, other oral parafunctions, and tooth wear in a group of subjects who had been examined 20 years earlier. Methods: Originally, 402 randomly selected 7-, 11-, and 15-year-old subjects were examined clinically and by means of a questionnaire. Twenty years after the first examination, 94% of the original group could be traced, and 320 (85%) completed and returned the questionnaire. Of the oldest group, 100 (81%) also underwent a clinical examination focusing on occlusal factors and function and dysfunction of the masticatory system. For analyses of predictors of some oral parafunctions and tooth wear registered at the 20-year follow-up, logistic regression was used with recordings at the first examination as independent variables. Results: Subjective reports in childhood of bruxism (defined as tooth clenching during daytime and/or tooth grinding at night), clenching only, grinding at night only, nail biting, and/or other parafunctions were predictors of the same oral parafunctions 20 years later. There were different predictors of the 2 components of bruxism, daytime tooth clenching and tooth grinding at night. Postnormal occlusion (Angle Class II malocclusion) and tooth wear in childhood predicted increased tooth wear in adulthood. Subjects with nonworking-side interference had less anterior tooth wear than those without such interference. Conclusion: Oral parafunctions in childhood may be a persistent trait in many subjects. Postnormal occlusion and tooth wear in childhood predicted increased anterior tooth wear 20 years later, whereas nonworking-side interference reduced the risk for such wear in 35-year-old subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This patient report concerns etiologic factors leading to a failed natural dentition, masticatory function, and poor dental esthetics in a 30-year-old woman. The surgical and restorative treatment provided for the patient was designed to address her dental phobia, location of residence, and debilitated oral condition. While the following case report details an example of the clinical success that can be achieved through advances in dental implant treatment, the most satisfying event was not necessarily the procedure itself, but the profound change that the generosity of the osseointegration community has made on the life of a needy individual. Through the active leadership of the Osseointegration Foundation Charitable Grant Program, the patient, whose complex treatment is described here, was able to take advantage of treatment that otherwise would not have been available to her. This complex treatment was enabled by the Osseointegration Foundation and other caring donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prosthetic considerations for partially edentulous patients involve evaluation of important aspects such as location and extent of edentulous areas. A comprehensive evaluation, and treatment planning is necessary for a successful outcome. Hence, the clinician should possess detailed and thorough clinical knowledge regarding patterns of partial edentulism. The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine the prevalence and pattern of edentulous space according to ACP classification in patients undergoing full mouth rehabilitation treatment. The data was collected from the case records of 51 patients requiring full mouth rehabilitation. Evaluation of the case record was done and marked on the Prosthodontic Diagnostic Index checklist (according to the American College of Prosthodontists). Chi-square test was applied to see associations of ACP Classes with age and gender. The results showed positive correlation between the variables with P value < 0.05. 76.5% of the patients were categorized as ACP Class-I; 5.9% as Class-II; 15.7% as Class-III; and 2% as Class IV. Class I was found to be the most prevalent in age groups between 20-30 years (66.7%), 40-50 years(100%), 50-60 years (78.6%) and 60-70 years (81.2%). Class I and Class III were common in 30-40 years (42.9%). Occurrence of Class I with 70.8%, Class II and Class III with 12.5% and 4.2% in Class IV was observed in male patients and Class I with 81.5%, Class III with 18.5% for female patients. This study concludes that ACP Class I was the most commonly occurring and was found to be predominant in all age groups and a decreased occurrence of Class IV. The number of female patients requiring full mouth rehabilitation is more than the male patients. Elderly patients needed full mouth reconstruction than the younger population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dental pieces are subjected to constant friction due to grinding during mastication and mouth disorders such as bruxism. Therefore, wear resistance of Y-TZP materials used for dental prostheses must be investigated. In this work, the influence of humidity and low temperature hydrothermal degradation (LTD) in 3Y-TZP ceramics subjected to fretting has been evaluated. A 100% r.h. reduces the effects of wear due to the lubricative effect of water, compared to those at ambient r.h. COF, wear volume and damage are considerably lowered at a r.h. of 100%. Exposure to degradation conditions for 25 h increased the vulnerability to wear damage of LAVA grade Y-TZP sintered at 1400 °C since the critical grain size of 300 nm was exceeded. • Humidity and LTD significantly influence fretting wear of Y-TZP ceramics. • High levels of humidity reduce friction and wear between flat and counter-material. • A higher sintering temperature affects wear behavior due to grain coarsening. • The presence of a debris layer reduced fretting damage in degraded material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Difficulties and limitations on masticatory function are among the main reasons why patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) seek care. Objective: To evaluate the masticatory behaviour and perception of chewing difficulties in adults with mild TMD of recent onset, considering the presence of malocclusion. Methods: Eighty‐one young adults were divided into groups according to the presence of TMD and malocclusion: Non‐TMD Normal Occlusion (n = 18), Non‐TMD Malocclusion (n = 22), TMD Normal Occlusion (n = 18) and TMD Malocclusion (n = 23). TMD was assessed using the TMD Research Diagnostic Criteria and volunteers also answered questionnaires regarding their perception about jaw functional limitation and difficulty to chew foods of different textures. Masticatory and swallowing behaviours were assessed using the Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation with Scores (OMES) protocol. Chewing time and chewing frequency taken to ingest the test‐food were also obtained. Two‐way‐ANOVA was used to analyse the TMD, occlusion and TMD × occlusion interaction effects. Results: Temporomandibular disorder effect was observed on vertical jaw mobility and jaw function limitation total scores, meaning that groups differed in the perception of opening limitation and mandibular limitation according to TMD status with a medium effect size. Also, more changes in chewing function (OMES‐chewing score) and higher chewing frequency was observed in the presence of TMD (P < 0.05). Occlusion effect was only observed on OMES‐swallowing score and no TMD × occlusion interaction effect was observed. Conclusion: Changes in chewing behaviour, frequency and perception of mandibular limitation was observed in the presence of TMD, pointing out the importance of functional evaluation when planning and establishing a treatment plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Studies on the elderly have reported that the risk of cognitive impairment is affected by chewing difficulty. Objective: To determine whether there is a relationship between the number of pairs of antagonist teeth that come into contact when the mouth is closed (functional masticatory units [FMUs]) and the level of cognitive impairment. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study with 502 institutionalised White individuals older than 65 years, living in the northwest of Spain and Portugal. Through a direct visual inspection, we recorded the number of FMUs. Cognitive impairment was assessed by applying the Mini‐Cognitive Examination (MCE), a test derived from the Mini‐Mental State Examination. To describe the statistical relationship between the FMUs and the MCE values, a generalised linear model (GLM) was applied. We assessed the GLM predictive capacity for detecting cognitive impairment (MCE ≤23) in a new study group consisting of 156 elderly individuals. Results: A large number of FMUs was significantly associated with a lower probability of cognitive impairment, regardless of the nature of the contact and its location (explained deviance, 30.1%). The model's discriminatory capacity for cognitive impairment based on the FMUs was "good" (0.820). The model's predictive capacity for cognitive impairment was "acceptable" (sensitivity, 0.786; positive predictive value, 0.900; accuracy, 0.729). Conclusion: In White, elderly institutionalised individuals, the absolute number of FMUs is significantly related to their MCE scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Introduction: Mastication has been assessed in several ways in the past. Both patients reported and objective assessment methods have been developed. The University Medical Center (UMC) Utrecht has developed a mixing ability test (MAT) using a two‐coloured wax tablet. The present study investigates the association between the mixing ability test and a chewing related questionnaire in patients treated for oral malignancies. Patients and methods: In a cohort study, patients treated for oral malignancies were assessed 4‐6 weeks before and 4‐6 weeks after treatment, as well as 6 months, 1 year and 5 years after treatment. The mixing ability test was assessed using 10 and 20 chewing strokes and was compared to seven questions about several aspects of mastication. Regression analysis was performed and density plots were drawn for statistical analysis. Results: One hundred and twenty‐three patients were included in this study. The questionnaire was less predictive for the 10‐chewing stroke test and the test was less discriminatory for different food types than the 20‐chewing stroke mixing ability test. Three questions about the ability to chew solid, soft and thickened liquid food types were found to be significantly predictive for the 20‐chewing stroke test. Threshold values on the mixing ability index were around 20 for the ability to chew solid food types and 24 for soft food types. Conclusion: The 10‐chewing stroke mixing ability test is less suitable than 20‐chewing strokes for patients with and treated for oral cancer. The 20‐chewing stroke mixing ability test has a fair association with self‐reported outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: There is increasing evidence of causal links between poor mastication and cognitive impairment, but possible effects of dietary hardness, which clearly affects mastication, on cognitive function are unknown. Objective: We investigated the hypothesis that hardness of the habitual diet would be associated with cognitive function among older Japanese adults. Methods: The subjects of this cross‐sectional study were 635 Japanese community‐dwelling people aged 69‐71 years. The masticatory muscle activity required for the habitual diet was used to determine dietary hardness. Consumption of 38 foods was assessed by a validated, brief‐type, self‐administered diet history questionnaire. A published database was then used to estimate the masticatory muscle activity involved in the ingestion of these foods. The Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA‐J) was used for the measurement of cognitive function. Results: The principal contributors to dietary hardness were cooked rice (28.0%), green leafy vegetables (5.1%), dried fish (4.9%), and pork and beef (4.6%). There was a positive association between dietary hardness and MoCA‐J score that was robust to adjustment for potential confounders (MoCA‐J score per 100‐unit increase in dietary hardness: β = 0.83 [95% CI: 0.08, 1.59], P = 0.03). These results did not change materially even after exclusion of subjects who reported substantial changes in their diet for any reason (β = 0.94 [95% CI: 0.02, 1.86], P = 0.04). Conclusion: This preliminary cross‐sectional study suggests that dietary hardness might have a beneficial effect on cognitive function in older Japanese people. Further prospective studies with more accurate measurements are needed to confirm this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Edentulism can reduce mastication, leading to changes in food pattern, with possible consequences to masticatory muscle thickness. Objectives: This study verified masticatory function and oral perception in subjects who did not use lower CDs, and whether the insertion of new upper and lower CDs would improve such variables. Methods: Fifteen edentulous elderly who wore only the upper CD were selected and received new upper and lower CD. Volunteers were evaluated at baseline and after 1, 3 and 6 months of new prosthesis use. Masticatory performance (MP) was assessed by the sieving method (X50 values). Masseter thickness (MT) was evaluated by ultrasonography. Oral sensorial ability (OSA) was assessed by oral stereognosis test and maximum tongue pressure (MTP) was verified by pressure sensors. Data were submitted to repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey‐Kramer posthoc tests (α = 0.05). Correlation between OSA and MTP was verified by Person's correlation. Results: X50 and MTP decreased (P < 0.05) after 1 month and remained stable (P > 0.05) for next assessments. After 3 months, MT in rest position was increased (P < 0.05), while during maximum voluntary contraction 1 month was enough to increase MT (P < 0.05). There were no differences for OSA (P > 0.05) and no correlation between OSA and MTP. Conclusion: Masticatory performance and masseter thickness of elderly who did not use the lower dentures were improved after 2 months using new upper and lower CDs. However, new CDs in both dental arch decreased MTP. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC #RBR‐37gdst). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (TOMASS) is a validated assessment tool measuring the efficiency of solid bolus intake by four quantitative parameters: discrete bites, masticatory cycles, swallows and time to ingest a single cracker. A normative database for adults (20‐80+ years) has previously been established. The objective of this study was to investigate the applicability and reliability of the TOMASS in children and adolescents (TOMASS‐C) and to establish the normative database for this younger population. We collected data from 638 participants (male: 311, female: 327) in five age groups (4‐18 years) with five different but very similar test crackers in four countries. Significant effects of bolus type (cracker), age group and gender on the TOMASS parameters were identified, requiring stratification of the TOMASS‐C database by these variables. Intra‐rater reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.94) for all parameters; inter‐rater reliability was moderate for "number of swallows" (ICC = 0.54), good for "bites" (ICC = 0.78) and "time" (ICC = 0.82), and excellent for "masticatory cycles" (ICC = 0.96). The "Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids in Children (TOMASS‐C)" was identified to be a reliable diagnostic tool for the comprehensive measurement of discrete oral stage components of solid bolus ingestion, standardised by a large normative database that covers age groups from preschoolers to young adults. While differences between gender groups were less pronounced than in the adult population, previous results relating to changes in masticatory and swallowing as a function of age are confirmed by our data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Craniomandibular Disorders is the property of Quintessence Publishing Company Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Craniomandibular Disorders is the property of Quintessence Publishing Company Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Signs and symptoms of mandibular dysfunction were studied in a group of 40 patients with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) and in a matched control sample. The mean age at examination was 18 years 6 months. Both groups were given a questionnaire and a clinical examination of the masticatory system. The symptoms significantly more frequently reported in the JRA group were TMJ sounds, difficulties in opening the mouth wide, and mobility pain. At least one symptom of dysfunction was reported in 55% of the JRA group and 20% of the controls. Clinical examination of TMJs and muscles generally revealed signs more frequently in the JRA group than in the controls. Involvement of the masticatory system in the JRA disease was further supported by observation of significantly reduced mandibular mobility as well as more frequent postnormnal occlusion and frontal open bite in the JRA group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A system for automatic on-line analysis of electromyographic recordings during natural activity in the muscles of mastication has been developed. Acquisition and digitizing of data, their filtering to ,mean voltage, gain read-off statistical treatment, and table/graphic presentation of results are in control of a micro-computer. Amplitude and time measurements marked on direct tracings combined with tabulated statistics of the same data permit immediate check of their validity before further calculations. A screen menu directs standard examination reducing control to one pushbutton for start/compute and one for delete. With instant access to parameters of muscle action and appropriate statistics, electromyography is now available for direct functional control during clinical procedures and basic experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated 30 control subjects and 20 temporomandibular (TM) disorder patients whose primary diagnosis was myalgia. All subjects had their lateral and protrusive jaw movements recorded (using a jaw tracking device) and analyzed for accuracy. All subjects filled out a 15-item questionnaire on TMJ dysfunction. The accuracy of the subject's lateral and protrusive jaw movements were then correlated to various symptom subcategories on the questionnaire. The results demonstrated that patients could be differentiated from controls but the strength of the correlation did not indicate any value in using mandibular movement accuracy as a predictor of the degree of TMJ dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]