Jaw Tracking System in Digital Dentistry: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biomedical Engineering
• Digital Health

Background:

• Occlusal assessment is crucial in dentistry, traditionally relying on mechanical articulators and manual techniques.
• Limitations of traditional methods include potential inaccuracies and time inefficiencies.
• Advancements in digital technology have led to the development of jaw motion tracking (JMT) systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the accuracy, reliability, and clinical utility of JMT systems.
• To compare JMT systems against traditional occlusal assessment methods.
• To provide an overview of evidence supporting JMT integration in dental practice.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42024567619).
• Comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (January 2005-December 2025).
• Inclusion of studies assessing JMT device performance in clinical, experimental, or in vitro settings, compared to conventional methods. QUADAS-2 tool used for quality assessment.

Main Results:

• Twenty studies were included, encompassing case studies to clinical trials.
• Optical tracking JMT systems showed superior precision and accuracy in recording mandibular movements compared to traditional methods.
• JMT systems demonstrated potential for reduced chair time and improved prosthetic outcomes, though risk of bias was noted due to small sample sizes and lack of long-term data.

Conclusions:

• Digital JMT technologies enhance occlusal assessment and treatment planning, especially in prosthodontics and TMJ diagnostics.
• Further research is required to standardize protocols, validate systems across diverse populations, and confirm clinical applicability.
• Methodological inconsistencies necessitate more rigorously designed studies to fully realize the benefits of JMT.