Masticatory system, TMJ disorders and postural alterations

The evidence of anatomical correlation between masticatory system and body posture has led to the hypothesis that they could be functionally associated as well. In the last decades, these issues have gained a great social significance because of a wide mass-media information. Nowadays it happens often to meet patients asking for occlusal treatments to treat postural imbalances or vice versa. The aim of this study is to critically review available evidence of correlation between posture and occlusion in order to address clinical issues for the management of patients. Many studies suggest some associations between occlusal disorders and postural imbalances, but a clear or reliable cause-effect relationship has not yet been demonstrated in any of the examined studies. Thus, on the basis of this review, it is not advisable to treat postural imbalances by means of occlusal treatment, especially if those treatment are not reversible.