J Orofac Pain
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To establish a quantitative sensory testing (QST) profile in the trigeminal (V) area and test for site and gender differences in healthy humans. ⋯ Application of this standardized QST protocol may allow for a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms from somatosensory phenotypes and provide basic information for the study of sensory dysfunctions in the V area.
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To compare pain sensitivity between deep bite patients and a sex- and age-matched control group with normal occlusion. ⋯ These data provide further evidence of gender-related differences in somatosensory sensitivity and for the first time indicate that subjects with deep bite may be more sensitive to glutamate-evoked pain and thermal stimuli.
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To compare prevalences of self-reported temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJMD)-type pain, headaches, and neck and back pains in the 2000 to 2005 US National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) by gender and age for non-Hispanic Whites (Whites), Hispanics, and non-Hispanic Blacks (Blacks). ⋯ The patterns of TMJMD-type pain varied greatly within and across racial/ethnic groups by gender and across the adult lifespan. Similarities and differences for the other pains were noted.
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To study the effect of diet hardness on condylar cartilage thickness, extracellular matrix composition, and expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -3, -8 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), by using immunohistochemical and morphometric methods. ⋯ The results show that a soft diet during growth increases collagenolytic activity and may increase the vulnerability of condylar cartilage.
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To examine the effect of decreased estrogen level and altered diet hardness on condylar cartilage morphology of the rat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and on the expression of condylar cartilage estrogen receptor alpha (ERa) and matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8). ⋯ The rat TMJ condylar cartilage is sensitive to changes in estrogen levels and altered diet hardness.