Vibroacoustic methods of imaging in selected temporomandibular joint disorders during movement

Abstract

Temporomandibular joints are part of the stomatognathic system and play an important role in chewing, swallowing and speech articulating and expressing emotions. Unfortunately, they often do not work properly. Occasional disorder, postural defects, increased muscle tone bearing down due to stress deprivation through such parafunctions as clenching and grinding teeth, long-term chewing gum, nail biting or chewing lips and cheeks can lead to the appearance of dysfunctions in the temporomandibular joints. Analysis of vibrations caused by dysfunctions enables a more accurate diagnosis and an objective way of monitoring the treatment process. The article presents the results of pilot studies carried out in this area by Authors on a group of 13 people (9 women and 4 men) suffering from various diseases within the stomatognathic system. Particular attention was paid to the problems associated with vibroacoustic registration of temporomandibular joint cracks that occurred during the determination of the test methodology.