[Electromyographic evaluation of silent periods in the elevator muscles of the mandible in dysfunctional pathology of the temporo-mandibular joint].

After a brief review of the features and physiology of the silent period, its modifications in painful temporomandibular dysfunction are assessed with particular reference to their reliability in practical diagnosis. Six patients with the classic signs and symptoms as well as 7 healthy volunteers acting as controls were examined. In view of the results obtained as well as the discrepancies reported in the literature and the numerous variations in the methods used in stimulating, recording and measuring the silent period, it is concluded that this study can play no more than a supporting role in the diagnosis of the syndrome despite its value in experimental research.