Temporomandibular Disorder Signs, Occlusal Support, and Craniofacial Structure Changes Among the Elderly Vietnamese

Abstract

The alteration of craniofacial structures was significantly associated with TMD signs among elderly Vietnamese. The higher number of lost occlusal support zones, the more significant the changes to craniofacial structures.

What factors predict craniomandibular disorders in severe COVID-19 survivors after prolonged intubation?

“…Loss of bilateral molars in one or both jaws (i.e. no occlusal support) significantly shortens the posterior facial height, adapting the mandible to a new functional (protrusive) position for masticatiory performance, and TMJ tenderness via repetitive jaw protrusion [26] . Furthermore, there is evidence that apart from senile changes, autoimmune rheumatologic diseases, such as Sjögren's syndrome, increase susceptibility to TMJ arthritis and dislocation [27] .…”

Oral and Systemic Effects of Xylitol Consumption

“…However, this study may also be biased because the study ignored the chewing-related salivary flow increase and its cleansing action [Watthanasaen et al, 2017]. Notably, chewing gum may not be an appropriate intervention for the elderly population who commonly have temporomandibular dysfunction [Nguyen et al, 2018].…”

“…Their overall results should read "The comparison between the two follow-up evaluations (12 and 24 months from baseline) showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups" but xylitol gum chewing showed slightly lower dental caries experience in the severe-caries group. However, gum chewing may be contraindicated in older adults to avoid temporomandibular dysfunction [Tabrizi et al, 2014;Nguyen et al, 2018].…”

Potential number of tooth losses in clicking, popping and crepitation of Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) in elderly

“…28, 29 Wiese et al 30 concluded that crepitation is often accompanied by osseous changes in the joints, such as flattening, erosion, osteophytes, and sclerosis. 30,31 Crepitation can occur due to the presence of rough and irregular articulation surfaces in the joints, causing compound sounds that can be observed during mandibular movements.…”