The Mandibular Orthopedic Repositioning Appliance and its Effect on Power Production in Conditioned Athletes

Abstract

In brief: Many athletes have used the mandibular orthopedic repositioning appliance (MORA) for alleged strength increases. In previous studies of the MORA, subjects were tested immediately after placement of the appliance. In this double-blind study, the authors used a 72-hour adaptation period before examining the MORA's effect on the external muscle power of 11 university football players. Subjects were assigned to an experimental or a placebo/control group based on the degree of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Before and after application of a MORA or a placebo mouthpiece, each subject's power was assessed in the seated press. Analysis of covariance was applied to the results and revealed no significant improvement for either group.

National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Preventing and Managing Sport-Related Dental and Oral Injuries

“…[41][42][43][44][45]79,80 The past several decades have seen many attempts by basic scientists and clinicians to prove or disprove this hypothesis. 41-45,136À138 These studies have been criticized as lacking true experimental designs, adequate sophistication of statistical analyses, and sufficient knowledge by the dental clinician researchers of how to test muscle strength.…”

Guardians of the temporomandibular joint: The occlusal splints- an overview

“…The change in jaw position was said to relieve muscle tension in the head and neck, improving the individual's neuromuscular efficiency and dynamic balance. 36…”