The influence of occlusion on sporting performance

Abstract AIM: The purpose of the present study is to investigate the relationship between dental occlusion and physical performance using the Ergo-jump platform, and to highlight connections, if any. METHODS: For the purpose of this research, 30 patients suffering from cervico-facial pathology and 10 without temporomandibular joint dysfunction were selected from within the Dental Clinic of the University of Sassari. For the first group a resin plate was prepared to correct the malocclusion, while for the control group a bite was prepared that created it. Subjects carried out exercises with the Ergo-jump platform, a device that assesses physical capabilities and athletic performance. Patients were asked to do 2 exercises, a counter movement jump and a mechanical power test, with plate and without plate. RESULTS: The tests of the first group were as follows: flying times with the bite were 0.01 s longer; the average elevation in the counter movement jump test did not give statistically significant results; execution of the mechanical power test suggests an increase in average mechanical power with the plate. Execution of the same exercises in the other group showed greater flight times without the place; average elevation was not statistically significant; the execution of the mechanical power test showed a decrease in average mechanical power with the occlusion plate. CONCLUSION: Statistical analysis of individual results showed that patients do not always obtain a benefit during physical exercise using the bite. Research shows that the same pathology can cause different physical performance in different individuals; in fact, not all craniomandibular disturbances have repercussions on posture.