Condylar Parameters and Mandibular Movement Patterns in Bruxers Using an Optical Jaw Tracking System

Area of Science:

• Dental Science
• Biomechanics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Eccentric bruxism, a sleep-related teeth grinding activity, presents complex parafunctional movements.
• Understanding condylar parameters and kinematics in bruxers versus non-bruxers is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare condylar parameters and jaw kinematics during functional and parafunctional movements in bruxers and non-bruxers.
• To evaluate a novel digital method for quantifying eccentric bruxism using the Modjaw® optical jaw tracking system.

Main Methods:

• Subjects diagnosed with eccentric bruxism and a control group underwent Modjaw® examinations.
• Measurements included sagittal condylar inclination (SCI), Bennett angle (BA), and kinematic areas (mm²) of the incisal point and condyles.
• Statistical analysis involved t-tests, Mann-Whitney tests, and ROC curve analysis for diagnostic accuracy.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in SCI, BA, or mastication areas were found between groups.
• The area of eccentric bruxism was significantly larger in bruxers (p < 0.001).
• The digital Modjaw® method demonstrated high sensitivity (>0.8) and specificity (>0.75) for detecting eccentric bruxism.

Conclusions:

• Mandibular and condylar kinematics during functional movements do not differ between bruxers and non-bruxers.
• The Modjaw® system provides a reliable digital method for quantifying eccentric bruxism.
• This digital approach offers potential for early detection of eccentric bruxism, preventing clinical consequences.