Electromyograph (EMG); This instrument
measures the electrical activity of various sets of muscles to determine their state of
activity, both at rest and during simple functional tasks. This information sheds
light on the muscular component of the TMJ problem. EMG is a technology that has
been used widely in the past in research. With the advent of personal computers,
this technology is now available as a clinical evaluation tool.
Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA);
This instrument records and analyzes the noises emanating from the Temporomandibular
joints, themselves, as the patient performs various jaw emotions. The quality,
amplitude and timing of these sounds are important factors in determining problems that
occur within the Temporomandibular joints themselves. Problems within the actual
joints can occur by themselves or in combination with muscular components. This
instrument helps quantify the findings of these joint sounds.
Electrognathography (EGN); By
affixing a small magnet to the lower teeth, utilizing this instrument, we can track the
lower jaw in three dimensions, as it traverses through space. We can also graph this
movement against time to get a picture of velocity and acceleration. Specifically
noted are the abnormal jaw pathways that are seen, as well as acceleration and
deceleration discrepancies seen as the patient's attempts to rapidly open and close
his/her mouth are modified by the multiple factors that are active with Temporomandibular
joint problems. When this modality is combined with JVA (see above) we are able to
accurately determine and record the exact point of movement, of the lower jaw, at which
specific abnormal (and normal) noises, happening within the jaw joint, occur.
