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| This chapter explores the complex and dynamic nature of the masticatory system through modern physics and biology, framing it as a "Complex System." Such systems are characterized by interactions among components and emergent behaviors that are not easily predictable through linear analysis. The chapter delves into "Complex Systems" theory, focusing on holistic methodologies, mathematical modeling, and self-organization.
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| The concept of "Connectivity" is introduced as crucial for understanding complex systems across various disciplines, exploring both structural and functional connectivity. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the masticatory function, increasingly recognized as a complex system due to its interactions with the central nervous system (CNS) and other distant systems.
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| Historically viewed as a peripheral function isolated to phonetics and chewing, mastication is redefined as a complex system with broad biological implications. The chapter criticizes reductionist approaches that focus solely on mechanical aspects, advocating for a model that considers the stochastic nature of biological systems where various interactions produce emergent behaviors.
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| Emergent Behavior (EB) in complex systems like mastication arises from component interactions. Understanding these interactions requires an integrated analysis, considering all components in both space and time, contrasting with traditional views that treat the masticatory system merely as mechanical processes.
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| A study highlighting the interaction between the vestibular and trigeminal systems showcases how acoustic stimuli can evoke electromyographic (EMG) responses in the masseter muscle, illustrating the integrated nature of sensory and motor responses and reinforcing the concept of the masticatory system as part of a broader interconnected system.
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| The chapter also touches on the relationship between mastication and cognitive processes, with studies using functional MRI (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) showing that mastication can increase cortical blood flow and activate various brain regions, enhancing cognitive performance.
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| Discussing neuroplasticity, the chapter explores how masticatory activities influence brain plasticity, particularly within the motor cortex, and highlights the potential for occlusal disharmonies to induce changes in brain function.
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| In conclusion, the chapter advocates for recognizing the masticatory system as a complex system, urging a paradigm shift in its study and treatment. An interdisciplinary approach incorporating bioengineering, neurobiology, and systems theory is recommended to develop more comprehensive diagnostic and treatment methods
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| {{ArtBy|autore=Gianni Frisardi}} | | {{ArtBy|autore=Gianni Frisardi}} |