Strain Elastography: Unveiling Differences in Masseter Muscle Elasticity Between Dentate and Complete Denture Wearers

Abstract Background: Being edentulous, or without natural teeth, is the state of having edentulism. Complete denture rehabilitation is one of the most prevalent and conventional prosthodontic treatment options for edentulous individuals facing systemic, anatomical, or socioeconomic limits. Objective: The objective of this investigation is to compare the elasticity of masseter muscle (MsM) in healthy dentate (Hd) individuals to that of complete edentulous (CEd) individuals rehabilitated with complete dentures using strain elastography (SE). Methods: In total, 24 subjects (12 Hd individuals and 12 CEd patients rehabilitated with complete dentures) were randomly selected for the study. SE was carried out for both left and right MsM, during relaxed and maximum clenching positions, in the Hd subjects. Following denture insertion and 3 months of monitoring, a scan was performed on a selected group of CEd patients. Results: At the 3-month follow-up, CEd patients with complete denture prosthesis demonstrated a significant increase in the mean elasticity index ratio on maximal clenching at the left side, indicating enhanced masticatory function and adaptation to the prosthetic intervention. Conclusion: SE represents a promising advancement in musculoskeletal imaging, offering quantitative insights into MsM elasticity that complement traditional diagnostic approaches. By harnessing the capabilities of this technique, clinicians and researchers can enhance their understanding and management of conditions affecting the MsM, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes.