Inhibitory effects in the masticatory neuromusculature of human subjects at median occlusal position

Abstract

The reflex inhibitory responses evoked in masticatory muscles by contact of the dentition during the open-tap-close and open-close-clench jaw cycles were compared with the duration of inhibition at median occlusal position. Nine patients with normal occlusions were studied. Electromyographic recordings from the bilateral temporalis, masseter and anterior digastric muscles revealed a highly significant difference in the duration of the EMG silent periods elicited. Median occlusal position produced the longest inhibition of elevator muscle activity, and was considered the test parameter to evaluate the harmony of neuromuscular integration.