Based
on a comprehensive computerized literature search supplemented by a specific
manual search of the literature, the present review article focuses on concrete
aspects of the application of surface electromyography (EMG) for evaluation of the
masticatory muscles in general and of the masseter and anterior temporal
muscles in particular, and presents the current base of knowledge on the
clinical relevance of surface EMG in dental applications. In the first stage of
the review, publications from the year 2000 or later reporting the results of
controlled clinical trials (randomized as far as available) of patients with
craniomandibular or temporomandibular disorders (TMD) were analyzed.
Data from
the selected publications were systematically compiled and divided into subject
areas as follows: Resting activity, maximal and sub-maximal voluntary
contraction, symmetry of EMG activity, and fatigue effects; EMG activity during
mastication, factors (including pain) that affect EMG activity, and the impact
of adjusting static and dynamic occlusal relationships; Effects of occlusal
splints and other occlusal treatments. Surface electromyography is in principle
a suitable tool for neuromuscular function analysis in the field of dentistry.
If used according to the specific recommendations and in conjunction with a
thorough and conscientious clinical history and physical examination, surface EMG measurements can
provide objective, documentable, valid, and reproducible data on the functional
condition of the masticatory muscles of an individual patient.
Conclusion
: “Surface EMG measurements can provide objective, documentable, valid, and
reproducible data on the functional condition of the masticatory muscles of an
individual patient.”
Surface
EMG of the masticatory
muscles (part 2): fatigue testing, mastication analysis and influence of
different factors.
Abstract
Int J Comput Dent. 2013;16(1):37-58.
Surface
EMG of the masticatory
muscles (part 2): fatigue testing, mastication analysis and influence of
different factors.
[Article in English, German]
Abstract
The
second part of this review of the literature on the clinical
significance of surface electromyography
(EMG) of the masticatory
muscles systematically examines the results of clinical
studies in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD), preferably
randomized controlled trials, investigating relevant aspects of EMG activity during prolonged chewing activity (fatigue
effects), during the mastication process, and under the influence of different
factors. Studies on the influence of factors such as gender, age, tooth status,
orofacial morphology and (acute) pain, the significance of different occlusal
relationships during static and dynamic occlusion, and the impact of changes in
static occlusion on EMG activity of the masticatory muscles were included in the review.
