THE ROLE OF BIOELECTRONIC INSTRUMENTATION IN THE DOCUMENTATION AND MANAGEMENT OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) can affect the form and function of the temporomandibular joint, masticatory muscles, and dental apparatu s. Electronic measurement of mandibular movement and masticatory muscl e function provides objective data that are defined by commonly accept ed parameters in patients with TMDs; these data can then be used to de sign and monitor therapy and enhance treatment therapy. In this study, data on 3681 patients with TMD are presented, including electronic te st data on 1182 treated patients with TMDs. Electronic jaw tracking wa s used to record mandibular movement and to compare the presenting and therapeutic dental occlusal positions. Electromyography was used to a nalyze the resting status of masticatory muscles and occlusal function at presentation and after therapeutic intervention. Transcutaneous el ectrical nerve stimulation therapy relaxed masticatory muscles and aid ed in the determination of a therapeutic occlusal position. The data s how a positive correlation between the clinical symptoms of TMD and th e presenting occlusion, accompanied by muscle activity. A strong posit ive correlation also appears to exist between a therapeutic change in the dental occlusion to a neuromuscularly healthy position with use of a precision orthotic appliance and the significant relief of symptoms within 1 month and at 3 months.