Occlusion and mandibular dysfunction: a clinical study of patients referred for functional disturbances of the masticatory system

Abstract

Fifty patients were selected according to age (less than 40 years) and dentition (full complement of natural teeth) from a large group referred for treatment of functional disturbances of the masticatory system. They answered a questionnaire and were examined clinically for evaluation of the severity of their symptoms and signs according to the Helkimo dysfunction indexes. The occlusal conditions recorded included contacts in centric and eccentric mandibular positions, various defined occlusal patterns, occlusal interferences, and dental attrition. The occlusal conditions varied considerably but did not show significant correlations with signs and symptoms of mandibular dysfunction. These results suggest that the occlusal variables studied do not contribute to the severity of the signs and symptoms of dysfunction. While it is tempting to propose that our results suggest an argument for dysfunction, it must be admitted that the precise role of occlusion remains unclear.