Abstract

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is directly connected with the cervical and scapular area through a common neuromuscular system. Therefore, postural alterations of the cervical spine may cause TMJ disorders and vice versa. The present study aims to compare the surface area described by the motions of the corporal center of pressure (CCP), before and after the installation of the occlusal splint in subject’s bearers of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The evaluation was carried out through a computerized baropodometric platform, in which the data related to the motion of the CCP were registered, before and after the installation of the occlusal splint. A statistically significant variation was verified at a 5% probability level (p<0.05) among the baropodometric measures, due to the decrease of the area described by the motion of the CCP. In TMDs bearer patients, the installation of the occlusal splint changed the surface described by the CCP, resulting in postural stability increase.

Key words: Temporomandibular joint, dental occlusion, temporomandibular joint disorders, posture.