CHANGES IN THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR-JOINT CAUSED BY THE VERTICAL FACIAL PATTERN - STUDY ON AN EXPERIMENTAL-MODEL

An experimental model reproducing open bite or verticalized facial pat tern was used to study its effect on the temporomandibular joints. 140 Wistar rats were used, divided into 3 groups: bilateral resection of the masseteric muscle, simulated muscular resection and control group. A series of radiological, morphological and histological tests were a nalyzed. The posterior rotation of the jaw caused by muscular resectio n although not producing a degenerative effect, did produce specific a rticular changes in the temporomandibular joint components.