The Application of Infrared Thermography as a Quantitative Sensory Measure of the DC/TMD

Abstract

The most common internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint is the displacement of the articular disc. Infrared thermography can be a useful method to avoid the establishment of chronic pain of the masticatory muscles. An early diagnosis and evaluation of the infrared thermal patterns can monitor the patients’ symptoms associated to the regions of interest (ROIs). The clinical relevance of detecting these muscular conditions and dysfunctions are important to determine the location of pain in order to avoid the progression of this pathological condition, where sensitization mechanisms can lead to the evolution and chronicity of pain on the cranio-cervical-mandibular complex (CCMC). The results of this pilot study, highlight the possibility of using infrared thermography as a quantitative sensory measure of the diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD), since there is a neuro-thermal pain pattern associated to specific ROIs of the CCMC.