engleski

Effects of different chewing tasks on masticatory muscles activity

Mastication is a highly coordinated neuromuscular function that involves fast effective movements of the jaw and continuous modulation of force. The aim of this study was to determine the chewing pattern of masticatory muscles during different chewing tasks. The purpose was also to evaluate the possible effects of prolonged continuous isometric contraction on functional capacity of the masticatory muscles. Twenty-four young adults participated in this study. Surface EMG recordings were obtained from anterior temporal, masseter and digastric muscles. EMG recordings were made during different chewing tasks that included chewing a moderately hard gum and empty chewing as well as during continuous isometric contraction in intercuspal position. The highest values for elevator muscles were found during the gum chewing, and the lowest during empty chewing. Depressor muscles showed maximum activity during gum chewing, while their activity decreased during continuous isometric contraction. During testing period the greatest change in muscles activity was observed after the first minute.

electromyography ; mastication ; muscle fatigue

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