Application of joint vibration analysis in TMJ disorders and occlusion

With the advent of digital technologies in Prosthodontics, the use of newer technologies must be used to aid the clinician in more objective methods than subjective methods. Clinician must rely on more than subjective findings (e.g. palpation and auscultation) when evaluating the temporomandibular joint. We need a way to objectively assess patient’s joint health and document both the pre-treatment conditions and the response to the treatments we provide. Use of Pre - treatment evaluation by Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA), helps in determining the presence or absence of joint pathologies before changes are made to the stomatognathic system. A post treatment evaluation will further aid in knowing the deleterious effects of the treatment procedures on the joint and suitable corrections can be initiated before permanent damage occur. The existence of this type of evaluation of the TMJ in function is critical for objective, diagnostically driven treatment. This article will describe the application of Joint Vibration Analysis in understanding the TMJ disorders and the role of DVA in occlusion.