How screens impact your patients' orofacial function and health

In the digital age we live in, screen use has become ubiquitous in our lives. From smartphones to computers and video games, we spend more and more time in front of these devices. However, this increase in screen time can have a significant impact on orofacial function, something that dentists and healthcare professionals should take into account.

The impact of screens on orofacial function

Orofacial function, which includes chewing, swallowing, and breathing, depends on the coordination of various facial and cervical muscles. When we spend long hours in front of screens, these muscles are affected in a subtle but significant way.

Alterations in orofacial musculature

The muscles involved in orofacial function, such as the masseter, temporal, and pterygoid muscles, tend to suffer tension and fatigue due to the static position and concentration required during prolonged screen use. This can lead to changes in chewing and swallowing patterns, as well as to the appearance of problems such as bruxism and muscle pain.

In addition, breathing can also be compromised, since the muscles responsible for opening the airways, such as the digastric muscle, can be affected by the position of the head and neck during screen use.

Postural consequences

Prolonged screen use can also generate changes in head posture, with a tendency to tilt forward and increased head protraction. This in turn causes muscular compensation, with increased activity of the trapezius and masseter muscles, which can trigger pain and tension in these areas.

Neurological impact of screen use

Beyond the muscular effects, excessive screen use can also have neurological repercussions. Attention and concentration, key functions for performing daily and professional tasks, can be affected by sensory overload and the constant alternation between stimuli that characterizes the use of digital devices.

In addition, cognitive processes such as memory, decision-making, and problem-solving ability can be compromised by changes in neural activation patterns associated with intensive screen use.

Intervention strategies

As dentists and healthcare professionals, it is important to be attentive to the signs and symptoms related to alterations in orofacial function caused by excessive screen use. Some intervention strategies that may be useful include:

Recommendations for patients

• Promote awareness about the impact of screens on orofacial health.
• Advise frequent breaks and stretching and muscle relaxation exercises.
• Suggest adjustments in posture and viewing distance of screens.

Rehabilitation exercises

• Implement myofunctional therapy programs to strengthen and re-educate orofacial muscles.
• Include postural control and body awareness exercises.
• Work on improving breathing and coordinating chewing and swallowing patterns.

Prevention of functional alterations

• Incorporate periodic evaluations of orofacial function in dental check-ups.
• Educate patients about the importance of maintaining healthy screen use habits.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to comprehensively address the impact of screens on overall well-being.

Conclusion

In summary, excessive screen use can have a significant impact on orofacial function, affecting muscles, posture, and neurological processes. As dentists and healthcare professionals, it is essential to be aware of these changes and adopt intervention strategies that prevent and address functional alterations related to the use of digital devices. Through education, rehabilitation, and interdisciplinary work, we can contribute to improving the quality of life and well-being of our patients.