Clinical relevance of surface EMG of the masticatory muscles. (Part 1): Resting activity, maximal and submaximal voluntary contraction, symmetry of EMG activity.

Hugger S¹, Schindler HJ, Kordass B, Hugger A: Int J Comput Dent. 2012;15(4):297-314.

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.”

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]

Hugger S¹, Schindler HJ, Kordass B, Hugger A.

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.