Affecting Upper Extremity Strength by Changing Maxillo-Mandibular Vertical Dimension in Deep Bite Subjects

Abstract

The effect of vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) on maximizing isometric deltoid strength (IDS) was measured in subjects with deep overbite. Sixteen female dental students with deep dental overbite and no history of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) were used as their own control and tested for isometric strength of the deltoid muscles, using a hand held strain gauge. Measurements were taken under four mandibular conditions: 1. habitual occlusion; 2. mandibular rest position; 3. biting on a bite elevating appliance set to the functional criterion of peak IDS; and 4. biting on a placebo appliance. Results showed that in deep bite subjects, isometric deltoid strength in habitual occlusion was significantly less than in the mandibular rest position. Isometric deltoid strength with the bite elevating appliance was significantly greater than isometric deltoid strength in habitual occlusion, as well as in the mandibular rest position. Isometric deltoid strength achieved in habitual occlusion and placebo did not differ. Results of this study support previous findings indicating that a change in the VDO will affect isometric strength of the upper extremities.

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Notes on contributors

Emad F. Abdallah

Dr. Emad F. Abdallah is an assistant professor at the Craniofacial Pain Center at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He received his B.D.S. degree at Alexandria University in Egypt in 1992. He then joined the Craniofacial Pain Center at Tufts University where he completed his fellowship and M.S. degree in orofacial pain. Dr. Abdallah then joined the Department of Orthodontics at Tufts University and received his certificate in orthodontics in 2000. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.

Noshir R. Mehta

Dr. Noshir R. Mehta is a professor and chairman of general dentistry and director of the Craniofacial Pain Center at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orofacial Pain and is a fellow of the International College of Dentists and a fellow of the American College of Dentists. Since receiving his D.M.D. degree and his M.S. in periodontics at Tufts University, he has been involved in occlusion research. Dr. Mehta has lectured internationally on TMD/MPD and has published numerous scientific papers.

Albert G. Forgione

Dr. Albert G. Forgione is Chief Clinical Consultant at the Craniofacial Pain Center at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He received a Ph.D. in psychology from Boston University and then joined Tufts University and lectured in behavioral medicine. Dr. Forgione established the first TMJ center at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine with Dr. Mehta in 1978.

R. Ernest Clark

Dr. R. Ernest Clark received a dual doctorate from the University of Iowa in 1958. Until 1998, he was Professor and Chief, Division of Biostatistics and Behavioral Sciences, as well as Director of Graduate Studies at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. A reviewer in biostatistics and behavioral sciences for the Journal of Dental Research since 1971, Dr. Clark has published and collaborated on over 100 scientific papers.