Forward Head Posture: Its Structural and Functional Influence on the Stomatognathic System, a Conceptual Study

ABSTRACTABSTRACTAn extensive conceptual analysis to establish the primary role a forward head posture plays in the appearance of some craniomandibular dysfunctions and internal derangements of the temporomandibular joints, associated to craniocervical postural disturbances. The analysis is based on findings contributed by scientific investigations in the field of dentofacial orthopedics and dysfunction. Special emphasis has been put on the influence of forward head posture on the craniofacial growth as it can determine a morphoskeletal and neuromuscular pattern leading to a dysfunctional condition. A correlation is established between Class II Occlusion, forward head posture, and craniomandibular dysfunction. The concept of craniocervical postural position is defined, as well as its close relation to the mandibular postural position. Additional informationNotes on contributorsHumberto E. GonzalezDr. Humberto Gonzalez received his D.D.S. degree at the School of Odontology at the Universidad de Chile in 1986. In 1992 he attended a postgraduate course in "improvement of Occlusion" at the University. During his professional career he has participated in a number of courses on the same subject. He specializes in oral rehabilitation.Arturo MannsDr. Arturo Manns is a full professor on the Faculty of Medicine and Ondontology, Universidad de Chile and head of the Oral Physiology Laboratory. He also holds the following positions: Fellowship at the Humboldt Foundation in Germany and Visiting Professor, Faculty of Odontology, Universidad de Concepcion, Chile. He is the author of a book entitled, "Stomatognathic Physiology" (published in Spanish). He has also published numerous book chapters and articles in several journals in the field of Oral Physiology, Occlusion and Dysfunction. Dr. Manns has given lectures and taught postgraduate courses in Chile and other countries.