A Graphic and Statistical Analysis of the Chewing Movements in Function and Dysfunction

Abstract

To study the statistical differences between functional and dysfunctional chewing, the authors selected two groups of 8 subjects each. Group 1 consisted of subjects who had good masticatory function, while Group 2 was made up of subjects with dysfunction of the stomatognathic system. Each of the subjects was given the same amount of crispy bread and was asked to chew it normally. The subjects' mandibular movements were recorded with an Electrognathograph which was connected to an XY chart recorder and a computer. The software produced data of the mean mandibular displacement on the frontal and the sagittal planes at 20 different degrees of jaw separation. Information on standard deviation values (i.e., the repetition or variability of movements) and on velocity was also obtained. Statistically significant differences were found between the movements of Group 1 and Group 2, which allowed the authors to assess some of the parameters typical of functional chewing.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Franco Mongini

Franco Mongini, M.D., D.D.S., Ph.D.

In 1963, Dr. Mongini received his M.D. degree from the University of Turin School of Medicine in Italy. He then went on to complete his specialist's degree in odontostomatology, which he received in 1965. He completed his D.D.S. in 1967 at the University of Zurich, Switzerland, and his Ph.D. was received in Rome in 1971.

Dr. Mongini is a lecturer in prosthodontics at the University of Turin School of Dentistry. He also serves as director of the university's Center for Gnathology and Pathophysiology of the Masticatory Function. He is a fellow of the International College of Dentists.

Dr. Mongini has published many articles and text chapters on TMJ remodeling, muscle function and dysfunction, mandibular motion, and occlusion. He is also the author of The Stomatognathic System: Function, Dysfunction and Rehabilitation.

Guido Tempia-Valenta

Guido Tempia-Valenta, D.D.S.

Dr. Tempia-Valenta received his D.D.S. degree from the University of Turin School of Dentistry. Turin, Italy. Since 1983 he has been a resident in the Center of Gnathology and Pathophysiology of the Masticatory Function at the university.

He is active in research at the institution, particularly in the area of mandibular movements and electromyography of the masticatory muscles. He is also working on a thesis studying the mastication in function and dysfunction.

Dr. Tempia-Valenta is a member of the International Association for Dental Research, and he will present a paper at the group's general session in March, 1984.