Mandibular movements in older people with rheumatoid arthritis

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the mandibular movements in older people with and without temporomandibular disorder (TMD) associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Study Design Thirty partially or completely edentulous older adults (65.33 ± 4.7 years) were assigned to 2 groups: (1) with RA and TMD and (2) without RA and TMD. Chewing movements of the jaws during mastication of the test material (Optocal) and the range of mandibular movements were evaluated by using the JT-3-D kinesiographic device before and after new removable prosthesis insertion. Multiple comparisons were made with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey-Kramer test. Results Comparisons between the 2 groups before and after new prosthesis insertion revealed that the RA and TMD group had reduced opening angles ( P P P Conclusions TMD associated with RA may impair mandibular movements. Well-fitted prostheses may improve mandibular movements in older adults, especially those with RA.