Experimental occlusal interferences. Part I. A review

Abstract

This review shows that experimental occlusal interferences (prematurities) may cause changes in the myoelectric contraction patterns of the human jaw muscles, and changes in the translatory motion patterns of the human mandible. However, it has not been unequivocally established that the observed changes have specific long-term detrimental effects. On the other hand, it is apparent that experimental occlusal interferences are associated with short-term clinical symptoms and signs, such as jaw muscle fatigue and pains, headaches, pains and clickings in the temporomandibular joints. This review suggests that new paradigms involving experimental occlusal interferences should be introduced.