Relationship between craniocervical orientation and center of force of occlusion in adults

OBJECTIVE: Clinical observation and anecdotal reports suggest changes can occur to dental occlusion following intervention with the National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA) procedure. This case controlled study discerned if occlusion changes are measurable using a dental force plate (T-Scan®) following an adjustment to the craniocervical junction (CCJ).

METHODS: A degree of case control was established by active patients being assessed twice prior to and following intervention. Before-after intervention assessment included posture evaluation and dental occlusion (T-Scan®).

RESULTS: Findings suggest that changes in posture and occlusion can be observed after the NUCCA chiropractic procedure. Not all patients demonstrated a more balanced contact pattern following the adjustment, indicating a need for further investigation.

DISCUSSION: These findings may suggest interconnectivity between the CCJ and an individual's occlusal contacts and support the need for further integration between chiropractors and dentists seeking to co-manage temporomandibular joint disorders.