Analysis of Masticatory Function and Mandibular Movements in Individuals with Class II and Class III Dentofacial Deformities

• Grant number: 25/14413-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Speech Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Luciana Vitaliano Voi Trawitzki
• Grantee: Maria Fernanda Alves Pires
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Dentofacial deformity (DDF), characterized by discrepancies in facial bone development, can compromise both aesthetics and orofacial functions such as chewing, swallowing, breathing and speech. The orofacial musculature may also be compromised, which influences treatment after surgical correction. Objective: To analyze whether there is a restriction of mandibular movements and its relationship with masticatory function among individuals with Class II and Class III dentofacial deformities, compared to individuals without such deformities (Control Group). Methods: This will be a retrospective study through the analysis of a database, with approval from the Research Ethics Committee. Participants will include individuals diagnosed with Class II and Class III dentofacial deformities by the Orthodontics team, as well as a control group without dental occlusion or maxillomandibular skeletal relationship alterations. The procedure will involve the analysis of information from the orofacial myofunctional evaluation with scores, carried out by speech-language pathologists experienced in applying the AMIOFE protocol. Data collected will include maximum mandibular opening, lateral movements to both sides and mandibular protrusion, masticatory function scores and the total orofacial myofunctional condition scores. The data will be organized in an Excel spreadsheet and subjected to statistical analysis, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. (AU)