Abstract
The ERPs in paradigms with transient, sustaining, step-down, and step-up clenching tasks was investigated using the conventional EEG recording method. The clenchings were performed at the incisor teeth along with corresponding sound signals, and the potentials were the mean of 15 time repetitions. Positive potentials were generated approximately 300 msec after the clenchings predominantly at the frontal region and these were similar to the so-called P 3 (00). The results indicated that the P 3-like potential occurs on the complete release of activities of jaw closing muscles, but not on the intermediate changes of the clenching movement. We speculated that the potential observed might reflect the activities of the neurons that reset the potential level of motor neurons relating to jaw closing at the cortex.
