Occlusal variables, bruxism and temporomandibular disorders: a clinical and kinesiographic assessment.

Seventy-five patients suffering from myofascial pain, headaches and anterior disc displacement were assessed clinically and with a kinesiograph. Twenty-eight asymptomatic dental staff served as a control group. The prevalence of awareness of bruxism was significantly greater in our TMD patients than the controls. Bruxism patients recorded a higher prevalence of incisor dentine wear suggestive of a forward mandible posture. Class II, Division 1 malocclusions formed a significantly higher proportion of the TMD patient group than the controls. Kinesiographic recordings showed that the vertical and lateral components of movement from postural position to intercuspal were significantly greater in the patient group.