Valutazione strumentale delle malocclusioni di Classe II

Objectives

In the present study, the authors investigated the possible etiological role of the masticatory muscles in the development of Angle class II malocclusion in hypodivergent and hyperdivergent patients.

Materials and methods

Ten patients with Angle class II malocclusion were examined, and each underwent surface electromyography, T-Scanning, and kinesiography.

Results

Compared with the hyperdivergent patients, those who were hypodivergent exhibited increased activation of all the muscles studied, especially the anterior temporalis and masseter, which presented a more anterior occlusal barycenter and higher-velocity opening and closing.

Conclusion

Structural and/or positional changes in the mandibles can be related to dysfunctional muscle activity. The muscle dysfunction can alter the growth pattern, especially in hypodivergent patients.