Objective: To evaluate the chewing performance and quality of life of individuals undergoing temporomandibular joint prosthesis (TMJ) reconstruction with total prosthesis. Materials and Methods: This is a crossover and quantitative study, where 36 individuals were randomized into two groups: Group 1 (G1)- was composed of individuals who underwent the surgery with a total prosthesis and Group 2 (G2): Healthy individuals (control group). Chewing performance was assessed using a two-colour chewing gum method and computerized analysis, evaluating the type of total prosthesis (custom and stock), the reconstructed side and the amplitude of mandibular movements prior to surgery. Quality of life was assessed using the questionnaire 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36), which was submitted to the student's test or ANOVA. Results: Comparing G1 with the control group (G2), there was a statistically significant difference in quality of life, for the physical (p = 0.028) and emotional (p = 0.037) domains, and in the chewing performance for the type of total prosthesis (p = 0.003), reconstructed side (p < 0.001) and amplitude of mandibular movements (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Individuals who underwent TMJ reconstruction surgery with a total prosthesis seem to have a decrease in the ability to mix or grind food. These individuals also showed impaired daily and/or professional activities due to physical and emotional conditions.
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