Effect of mechanical loading on the metabolic activity of cells in the temporomandibular joint: a systematic review

B.F. Betti, V. Everts, J.C.F. Ket, H. Tabeian, A.D. Bakker, G.E. Langenbach, F. Lobbezoo

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

    24 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review was to elucidate how different modalities and intensities of mechanical loading affect the metabolic activity of cells within the fibro-cartilage of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

    Materials and methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases. The articles were selected following a priori formulated inclusion criteria (viz., in vivo and in vitro studies, mechanical loading experiments on TMJ, and the response of the TMJ).

    A total of 254 records were identified. After removal of duplicates, 234 records were screened by assessing eligibility criteria for inclusion. Forty-nine articles were selected for full-text assessment. Of those, 23 were excluded because they presented high risk of bias or were reviews. Twenty-six experimental studies were included in this systematic review: 15 in vivo studies and 11 in vitro ones.

    Conclusion: The studies showed that dynamic mechanical loading is an important stimulus for mandibular growth and for the homeostasis of TMJ cartilage. When this loading is applied at a low intensity, it prevents breakdown of inflamed cartilage. Yet, frequent overloading at excessive levels induces accelerated cell death and an increased cartilage degradation.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)57-67
    JournalClinical Oral Investigations
    Volume22
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Jan 2018

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