An objective evaluation of masticatory function by analysis of masticatory movements.

Abstract

In order to establish an objectively evaluating method for masticatory function an automatic masticatory movement analyzing system was developed. Using this system the—dif-ferences in the masticatory movement between normal subjects and craniomandibular disorder (CMD) patients were analyzed. 1. A system was developed that can change the analog signals of masticatory movement to digital signals, establish threshold value, and automatically evaluate the average path of the opening and closing movement and the rhythm of the opening, closing and occluding phase. 2. No significant differences were found in the opening, closing, and occluding time when the system or the degimatic caliper was used in analyzing masticatory strokes. 3. The ten strokes beginning the fifth stroke of chewing gum were the most stable in both rhythm and path. 4. There were significant differences between CMD patients and normal subjects in the indicators for the stability of rhythm and path. 5. The stability of rhythm and path was considered normal if the indicators were within one standard deviation, and for the rhythm, if 3 out of 4 indicators, and for the path, if 2 out of 3 indicators were within normal range. 6. A radar chart was formulated for an objective evaluation of masticatory function.