Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a technique used to measure and analyze muscle activity by detecting electrical signals from the skin's surface. This paper reviews the historical development and current state of sEMG in dentistry, highlighting its diagnostic applications and technological advancements. The authors discuss the evolution of sEMG methods and equipment, emphasizing the importance of standardization in musculoskeletal testing. They recommend higher sampling rates (2000 Hz or higher) and specific bandwidths (20 Hz to 500 Hz) for more accurate recordings and analyses. The paper also reviews the current state of sEMG research and technical solutions, noting the increasing interest in sEMG in dentistry. It highlights the use of sEMG in assessing muscle bioelectrical activity during physiological and parafunctional activities, diagnosing temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle function, and treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The authors provide recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for detailed descriptions of selected parameters to ensure reproducibility. They also discuss the potential future developments, including the use of wireless technology, artificial intelligence, and miniaturized devices.Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a technique used to measure and analyze muscle activity by detecting electrical signals from the skin's surface. This paper reviews the historical development and current state of sEMG in dentistry, highlighting its diagnostic applications and technological advancements. The authors discuss the evolution of sEMG methods and equipment, emphasizing the importance of standardization in musculoskeletal testing. They recommend higher sampling rates (2000 Hz or higher) and specific bandwidths (20 Hz to 500 Hz) for more accurate recordings and analyses. The paper also reviews the current state of sEMG research and technical solutions, noting the increasing interest in sEMG in dentistry. It highlights the use of sEMG in assessing muscle bioelectrical activity during physiological and parafunctional activities, diagnosing temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle function, and treating temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The authors provide recommendations for future research, emphasizing the need for detailed descriptions of selected parameters to ensure reproducibility. They also discuss the potential future developments, including the use of wireless technology, artificial intelligence, and miniaturized devices.