Modification of cognitive function induced by a functional orthodontic device

Abstract

Chewing is one of the most important orofacial functions. Over the last twenty years, a number of authors have examined the correlation between an efficient chewing function and different aspects of body functions: implementation of cognitive functions, reduction of nociceptive impulse propagation, reduced levels of stress, reduced risk of developing atherosclerosis and desaturation, limitation of eating disorders and constipation. Starting from the above considerations, this study aims at investigating the correlation between occlusal balance – without which there would be no proper mastication – and fundamental aspects as cognitive function, stress, arousal and concentration. For this purpose, we used specific tools and software to observe the electrical activity of the brain in 10 healthy volunteers. All the measurements for each participant have been carried out in three different phases: a first phase in which all the individuals were in a condition of initial occlusion; a second phase in which the occlusion was modified using a functional orthodontic device; and a third phase, in which individuals removed the device. The variations between three phases have been evaluated by using the Student’s t-test, and we considered them significant for p<0.05. The results have highlighted a significant variation in terms of stress, arousal and concentration among the three phases.