USE OF ELECTROMYOGRAPHY IN THE EVALUATION OF OCCLUSAL THERAPY

Prof. Tartaglia, Dott. Polcan, Dott. Bianchi
Functional Anatomy Research Center of the University of Milano

Surface Electromyography (EMG) is currently considered a useful tool for dentistry, allowing support of conventional morphological evaluation in the accurate and objective quantification of functional activity.

A correct evaluation of prosthodontic reconstructions should include the morphological evaluation as well as occlusion and the measurement of the actual impact of morphology on the function of the stomatognathic system. Measurements can be performed using surface EMG recordings of the main masticatory muscles such as the Temporalis anterior and Masseter. Starting from the variety of information collected during instrumental tests, some selected numerical indices for easy understanding and practical application can be obtained:
- POC (percentage overlapping coefficient, an index of symmetrical distribution of muscular activity determined by occlusion)
- TORS (an index of the possible presence of a mandibular torque).

Evaluation of the data obtained by the test can be coupled with a graphic support, allowing easy and obvious communication between clinician and patient.

Technology, instruments developed upon research based data and application protocols that couple scientific accuracy, essential in all instrumental evaluations, with the simplicity necessary for the daily work in dental practice will be presented together with all aspects of the use of EMG in the evaluation of occlusal therapy.