Orofacial dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) affects orofacial function. Our aim was to evaluate certain characteristics of orofacial function in DMD and relate possible deteriorations to the age of the patients and to the diminished internal structure quality of the masseter muscle. Bite force and finger force were measured in 16 DMD patients (6-20 years old) and 16 age matched controls.

Dentofacial characteristics of growing patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a morphological study.

Occlusal traits and craniofacial morphology were studied in growing patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Sixteen patients from 6 to 20 years of age were examined and compared with 16 healthy male individuals matched according to age. The dental arches and occlusal traits of both groups were analysed on dental casts and compared with the norms of healthy individuals from the literature.