The effect of an occlusal interference on the masticatory system. An experimental investigation.

An experimental short term study on the effect of an occlusal interference on the path of closure of the mandible was carried out on 8 persons. The interference consisted of a gold inlay placed unilaterally in one of the mandibular first molars. Clinical and electromyographic studies revealed functional disturbances or pain in all subjects. The masticatory musculature was tender to palpation and showed coordinational disturbances; the TMJ showed tenderness to palpation, clicking and irregular movements and the interfering teeth periodontal tenderness.