The Importance of Surface Electromyography in the Diagnosis of Temporomandibular Joint Musculoskeletal Dysfunction and Bruxism Under Academic Stress

At present, stress plays a significant role in everyday human life. Elevated levels of academic stress and neurotic tension among students may contribute to development of functional disturbances, temporomandibular musculoskeletal dysfunction, and bruxism. Academic overload, chronic psychoemotional stress, sleep disturbances, and increased anxiety levels are closely associated with excessive activity of masticatory muscles and functional disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Investigation of clinical manifestations in students demonstrates the importance of timely diagnosis and increased clinical attention toward this problem. Surface electromyography (sEMG) represents a noninvasive and informative diagnostic method that allows evaluation of: bioelectrical activity of masticatory muscles; muscle coordination; asymmetry of muscular contraction; hyperactivity associated with parafunctional habits. Application of sEMG contributes to early detection of muscular dysfunctions and improves diagnostic accuracy in patients with bruxism and temporomandibular disorders developing under conditions of chronic academic stress.