Determination of Maximum Mandibular Movements in 18-25 Year- Old Dental Students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2000

Abstract

Background: The range of mandibular movements is a reliable indicator for evaluation of the function of the masticatory system and any limitation in movement of this system could be a sign of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The purpose of this study was to determine the range of mandibular movements in healthy Iranian dental students indifferent directions.Materials and Methods: 114 healthy dental students with a symptom free masticatory system were selected and measurements were performed in different planes.Results: The results were: 1) 36.5 to 65 mm for minimum and maximum jaw opening in females. 2) 1.50 to 10.200 mm for minimum and maximum protrusion in females. 3) 4.200 to 10.600 mm for minimum and maximum movement to the right in females. 4) 5.800 to 12.200 mm for minimum and maximum movement to the left in females. 5) 42.500 to 80.000 mm for minimum and maximum jaw opening in males. 6) 2.600 to12.000 mm for minimum and maximum protrusion in males. 7) 4.100 to 12.400 mm for minimum and maximum movement to the right in males. 8) 4.5000 to 13.400 mm forminimum and maximum movement to the left in males.Conclusion: We hope that we can use these normal ranges as a reference for diagnosis and management of patients with temporomandibular disorders.Key words: Mandibular movements, TMD, Maximum jaw opening