Abstract

Objective Analyze the stomatognathic system of adult women with rheumatoid arthritis through the masseter and temporalis muscles' thickness, maximum molar bite force, mandibular mobility and repercussion of the oral conditions in the quality of life. Methods Twenty-eight women were divided into two groups: with rheumatoid arthritis (n = 14, mean age 52.2 ± 3.0 years, RAG) and without rheumatoid arthritis (n = 14, mean age 49.4 ± 2.4 years, CG). Masseter and temporalis muscles' thickness was measured at rest and maximum voluntary contraction by ultrasound. Maximum molar bite force (right and left) was captured by digital dynamometer. Mandibular mobility in the maximum mouth opening, right lateral excursion, left lateral excursion and protrusion was measured by digital caliper. Repercussion of oral conditions on quality of life was verified by the Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaire (OHIP-14). Results There were statistically significant differences in maximum molar bite force right side of the dental arch, (P = 0.03) and repercussion of oral conditions on quality of life by the sum of OHIP-14 (P = 0.00) between RAG and CG. Conclusion Women with rheumatoid arthritis showed decrease in maximum molar bite force and negative impact on the repercussion of oral conditions on quality of life. However, there was no significant statistical difference for masticatory muscles' thickness and mandibular mobility.

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