Ultrasonographic observation of anterior temporalis and masseter muscle in open bite patients: A comparative study

Aim: The present study was done to compare the muscle thickness of the masseter and anterior temporalis muscle in adults with normal occlusion and anterior open bite using ultrasonography, in rest position and maximum intercuspation. Material and Methods: Ultrasonographic recording of masseter and anterior temporalis thickness of both sides of nine subjects with anterior open bite and normal occlusion was done. Unpaired t test was used for the intergroup comparison of muscle thickness. Results: A significant correlation between the thicknesses of both the muscles in contracted state was found to be more in anterior open bite. There was no statistically significant correlation between thicknesses of both muscles in relaxed state. Conclusion: Since no detailed investigation was done, it will be premature to give a final verdict on the correlation between the masticatory muscle thickness and facial morphology. A long term follow up will provide a new insight for future clinical purpose.