Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a technique for measuring and analyzing the electrical signals of muscle activity using electrodes placed on the skin's surface. This paper outlines the history of sEMG in dentistry, current research, and future directions. sEMG has significant applications in dentistry, including the assessment of muscle bioelectrical activity during physiological and parafunctional activities, diagnosis of temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle function, and treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Studies have shown the influence of psychological and physical states on masticatory muscle bioelectrical activity, and sEMG has been used in orthodontics to monitor therapy effectiveness. The history of sEMG in dentistry dates back to the 17th century, with early experiments on masticatory muscle strength. The 18th and 19th centuries saw advancements in electricity and nerve conduction research, leading to the development of sEMG. The 20th century marked significant progress in sEMG technology, including the first recordings of bioelectrical activity and the establishment of sEMG as a diagnostic tool. The 21st century has seen the standardization of sEMG protocols, such as the SENIAM program, and the development of advanced sEMG devices. Current research in sEMG in dentistry includes studies on the effects of masks, physical activity, and botulinum toxin on masticatory muscles. New functional indices for masticatory muscle activity have been developed. The BioEMG III electromyograph is a commonly used device for sEMG in dental research, capable of recording electrical activity from multiple muscles simultaneously. Wireless sEMG systems, such as the Ultium EMG, have also been developed to improve portability and ease of use. Future research should focus on improving sEMG equipment, standardizing parameters, and increasing the accuracy of sEMG data. More high-quality clinical trials are needed to further validate the use of sEMG in dentistry. The integration of sEMG with other technologies, such as biofeedback and computerized analysis systems, is expected to enhance its diagnostic and research capabilities.Surface electromyography (sEMG) is a technique for measuring and analyzing the electrical signals of muscle activity using electrodes placed on the skin's surface. This paper outlines the history of sEMG in dentistry, current research, and future directions. sEMG has significant applications in dentistry, including the assessment of muscle bioelectrical activity during physiological and parafunctional activities, diagnosis of temporomandibular joint and masticatory muscle function, and treatment of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Studies have shown the influence of psychological and physical states on masticatory muscle bioelectrical activity, and sEMG has been used in orthodontics to monitor therapy effectiveness. The history of sEMG in dentistry dates back to the 17th century, with early experiments on masticatory muscle strength. The 18th and 19th centuries saw advancements in electricity and nerve conduction research, leading to the development of sEMG. The 20th century marked significant progress in sEMG technology, including the first recordings of bioelectrical activity and the establishment of sEMG as a diagnostic tool. The 21st century has seen the standardization of sEMG protocols, such as the SENIAM program, and the development of advanced sEMG devices. Current research in sEMG in dentistry includes studies on the effects of masks, physical activity, and botulinum toxin on masticatory muscles. New functional indices for masticatory muscle activity have been developed. The BioEMG III electromyograph is a commonly used device for sEMG in dental research, capable of recording electrical activity from multiple muscles simultaneously. Wireless sEMG systems, such as the Ultium EMG, have also been developed to improve portability and ease of use. Future research should focus on improving sEMG equipment, standardizing parameters, and increasing the accuracy of sEMG data. More high-quality clinical trials are needed to further validate the use of sEMG in dentistry. The integration of sEMG with other technologies, such as biofeedback and computerized analysis systems, is expected to enhance its diagnostic and research capabilities.