J Oral Med Pain.  2021 Dec;46(4):155-160. 10.14476/jomp.2021.46.4.155.

Association between Temporomandibular Disorder and Masticatory Muscle Weakness: A Case report

• Kim JH
• Park HJ
• Ryu JW

• KMID: 2552223
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14476/jomp.2021.46.4.155

Abstract

The masticatory muscle disorder is the most common problem that patients with temporomandibular disorder often complain. For such complaints, treatment is directed towards reducing hyperactivity of muscles or effects of the central nervous system. However, if nonspecific occlusal change or pain persists, it is necessary to consider that muscle weakness might be the cause of the persistence of temporomandibular disorder. Stabilization of occlusion and improvement of the pain symptoms were achieved in both cases through the chewing gum exercise. This exercise may enable masticatory movements done in normal function by using muscle engram and achieve reinforcement of the masticatory muscles with balanced, simultaneous contacts of the teeth. In addition, it may be a viable method for treating temporomandibular disorders that do not respond well to conventional mandibular stabilization therapies.

Keyword

Chewing gum; Exercise; Muscle weakness; Temporomandibular disorder; Ultrasonography