Analysis of Occlusal Forces and Amplitude of Mandibular Movement in Children Based on the Need for Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

This study analyzed the occlusal forces at the maxillo-mandibular interface and the mandibular mobility in children with and without the need for orthodontic treatment. Ninety children were divided into the following three groups based on the Dental Health Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN-DHC): those with no need for orthodontic treatment ([NNG]; mean age 8.00 (SD: 0.43) years; n = 26), those with small malocclusions and slight need for orthodontic treatment ([SNG] mean age 8.89 (SD:0.43) years; n = 28), and those with moderate malocclusions and need for orthodontic treatment ([MNG]; mean age 8.44 (SD:0.22) years; n = 36). The T-Scan® III Occlusal Analysis system was used to evaluate the occlusal forces (%) during contact between the maxilla and the mandible (right and left side). Normal and maximum voluntary opening range and mandibular border movements (right laterality, left laterality and protrusion) were measured using a millimeter ruler. Data were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis (ANOVA and Bonferroni test, P ≤ .05). It was verified that MNG had lower occlusal forces compared to NNG and SNG, with respect to the maxilla/mandible (right and left side), with no significant difference, and greater amplitude of mouth opening and mandibular jaw movements with significant difference in normal mouth opening between SNG and MNG (P = .04). Children with a moderate need for orthodontic treatment presented functional changes in the stomatognathic system.