An orthognathic treatment ofpatient with severe mandibular asymmetry and masticatory muscles dysfunction — a case report

Abstract

In clinic, patients with asymmetrical mandible are likely to have masticatory muscle dysfunction. The correction of an asymmetrical mandible may lead the recovery of harmonious stomatognathic function. Thisarticle reports treatmentof an adult male patient with severe mandibular asymmetry, unilateral cross-bite and masticatory muscle dysfunction. The examinations of masticatory muscle function were conducted by electromyogram (EMG) and Dental Prescale System at 2 times: before and after treatment. At the initial stage, the occlusal force and occlusal contact area during clenching were 312.6 N and 7.5 mm,respectively. Resolution of the dentoskeletal problems required a combination of orthodontic tooth alignment with multi-bracket appliances and orthognatic surgery. After 15-month treatment, an acceptable occlusion was achieved. At that time, the occlusal force becamelarger (579.9N). The occlusal contact area at maximum clenching also became larger (9.9 mm) than that atinitial stage. After a 2-year retention, an acceptable occlusion was maintained without recurrence of mandibular asymmetry, indicating a long-term stability of occlusion.