Effect of imbalances in occlusal contact on the viscoelastic properties of the temporomandibular joint region

Abstract

I used the TMJ viscoelasticity analyzer to investigate the effect of imbalances in occlusal contact in intercuspal position on the viscoelasticity of the TMJ region by measuring the three properties of viscosity, elasticity and mass. I evaluated 10 healthy volunteers and 28 patients with temporomandibular disorders after checking the conditions of their occlusion. I also measured the viscoelasticity in 10 healthy volunteers before and after clenching for one minute on an experimental occlusal appliance. The results suggested that imbalances in occlusion affect the viscoelasticity of the TMJ region.