Method of diagnosis of the temporomandibular joint disorders

Study of EMG data in patients with TMJ disorders is very important in successful diagnostic of this disease.The aim of study was to determine a specific EMG status of patients with TMJ disorders. Materials and methods of the study involved 70 patients (aged 18-55) with TMJ disorders accompanied with pain syndrome. 20 healthy individuals without signs of TMJ pathology were included in a control group. Comprehensive examination scheme consisted of basic clinical techniques and a number of special additional procedures such as CBT of temporomandibular joint, investigation of occlusal contact with individual articulator, EMG ofmasseteric muscles, assessment ofpsycho-emotional status and pain. EMG study was performed using 4 tests: relative physiological rest, maximum contraction of the jaws and function of chewing. Index of symmetry of masseters, temporal muscles and TORC were valued. Results. Specific features of EMG status ofpatients with TMJ disorders were revealed. The levels of index of symmetry of masseters, temporal muscles as well as TORC in patient with TMJ disorders were significantly higher compared with healthy individuals. Index of symmetry of masseters variedfrom 38 to 162 %, temporal muscles from 41 to 159 %, TORC from 34 to 166 %. In patients of control group all index varied from 80 to 120 %. So EMG may be use for diagnostic offunctional condition of masseteric muscles in patients with TMJ disorders.