Oromandibular dystonia--functional and clinical characteristics: a report on 21 cases

Abstract

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to describe subtypes, characteristics, and orofacial function of patients with oromandibular dystonia and report results of special dental importance.

Study design: Symptoms, signs, and function were evaluated by questionnaires, video, and clinical and physiological examinations in 21 patients with primary and secondary dystonia (13 focal, 7 segmental, 1 multifocal).

Results: A mixture of 2 or more subtypes of jaw movements was most common (43%), and the dystonic electromyographic activity was frequent in the anterior digastric (62%) and temporal and lateral pterygoid (48%) muscles. The impact from the oromandibular dystonia was marked. The prevalence of problems with mastication and swallowing was high, as well as with hyposalivation, dental attrition, and other dental problems.

Conclusions: Patients with oromandibular dystonia may present to dentists with involuntary jaw movements and other severe functional problems. Care must be adapted to the neurological disorder and may be complicated by the condition itself.