Right-left asymmetry of maximum jaw opening

Abstract

Abstract

According to several studies on human populations, the mandible deviates on opening significantly more often to the left than to the right. An association between the asymmetry of opening and handedness has been suggested. The present study of 143 left-handed Finnish conscripts showed no significant difference from the asymmetry reported for populations unselected for handedness. It was concluded that the opening asymmetry and handedness are not associated. The asymmetry proved also to be unassociated with the side of first unilateral tooth contact on guided hinge closure, with the side of palpatory tenderness of the muscles of mastication, and with the side of temporomandibular joint sounds.