[Attempt of analyzing the mandibular movement in three dimensions by computer graphics]

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Computer Graphics
• Dental Mechanics

Context:

• Current methods for measuring mandibular movement often oversimplify complex 3D trajectories.
• Understanding the full scope of jaw motion is crucial for diagnosing stomatognathic dysfunction and recording maxillomandibular relations.
• Existing planar analysis fails to capture the intricate, time-dependent, three-dimensional nature of mandibular movement.

Purpose:

• To develop an advanced three-dimensional (3D) analyzing system for mandibular movement using computer graphics.
• To create software capable of visualizing and processing complex 3D jaw motion data.
• To enhance the accuracy of diagnosing and recording maxillomandibular relations.

Summary:

• Mandibular movement was recorded using a Mandibular Kinesiograph and transmitted to a personal computer.
• A custom software program, developed using "C", allowed data observation from multiple viewpoints and display of simultaneous data sections.
• The system enabled analysis of mandibular movement paths along different coordinate axes, providing a more accurate 3D understanding.

Impact:

• Facilitates more precise diagnosis of stomatognathic dysfunction.
• Improves the understanding of complex maxillomandibular relationships.
• Offers a novel tool for researchers and clinicians studying jaw biomechanics.