Occlusal measurement method can affect SEMG activity during occlusion

Summary Occlusal indicators are widely used in dental treatment to measure tooth contacts that occur during occlusion. However, the presence of an indicator may affect the mechanics of occlusion and lead to invalid tooth contact data. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of four indicators (Parkell, silk, T‐Scan® sensor and paper) on surface electromyography (SEMG) activity during occlusion. Twenty‐three subjects performed strong bites and maximum clenches onto the four indicators and natural dentition. Surface electromyography recordings of anterior temporalis and superficial masseter activity and the subjects’ perception of each indicator were measured. SEMG activity with the T‐Scan® sensor and paper was significantly different (higher masseter activity; P