Safety and Effects of the Rapid Maxillary Expander on Temporomandibular Joint in Subjects Affected by Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Retrospective Study.

Background: In Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) temporo-mandibular joints are often affected causing skeletal and dental malocclusions. The most frequent condition is mandibular hypoplasia, that may be associated with maxillary hypoplasia. The aim of this retrospective case control study is to investigate the effects and the safety of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) in growing patients affected by JIA.

Masticatory behaviour and chewing difficulties in young adults with temporomandibular disorders.

Background: Difficulties and limitations on masticatory function are among the main reasons why patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) seek care.

Objective: To evaluate the masticatory behaviour and perception of chewing difficulties in adults with mild TMD of recent onset, considering the presence of malocclusion.

Methods: Eighty-one young adults were divided into groups according to the presence of TMD and malocclusion: Non-TMD Normal Occlusion (n = 18), Non-TMD Malocclusion (n = 22), TMD Normal Occlusion (n = 18) and TMD Malocclusion (n = 23).