A Study of the Electrical Properties of the Buccal Area using Facial Surface Electromyography

Objectives : The purpose of this study was to determine the electrical properties of the buccal area using facial surface electromyography (sEMG). Methods : This research was conducted on 44 healthy participants irrespective of their sex. Surface electrodes were attached to the midpoints of three imaginary lines connecting ST4 (Dicang) to ST6 (Jiache), ST4 to SI18 (Quanliao), and ST4 to the center point of SI18 and ST6. Then, the participants were trained in the movement that included a comprehensive action of buccal area. While the participants were performing the motion, sEMG values ($E_1$, $E_2$, $E_3$) and the distance change of the three imaginary lines ($D_1$, $D_2$, $D_3$) were measured. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSS ver. 22.0. Results : Significant differences were observed in the distance changes ($D_1$>$D_3$, $D_2$>$D_3$) and sEMG values ($E_1$<$E_2$<$E_3$). Moreover, there were positive correlations between $D_1$ and $E_1$, $D_2$ and $E_2$. Conclusion : We suggest that the measurement at ST4 to the center point of ST6 and SI18 with this motion would be adequate to check the electrical characteristics of the buccal area.