O uso do acelerômetro de um smartphone para captação e análise das vibrações da articulação temporomandibular

Abstract

One of the signals of temporomandibular disorder is the presence of crack noises in the joint. Identifying these signals is essential to establish a correct diagnosis and thus treat the pathological changes that may occur in this facial structure. Prior to the beginning of any dental treatment, an evaluation of the current joint condition is indispensable. The practitioner’s clinical experience through manual palpation and the aid of a stethoscope is of great value for the anamnesis. However, when it is necessary, additional examinations such as panoramic radiography, MRI and CT scans are also required to increase diagnostic accuracy. In this work, the author made use of a smartphone accelerometer to measure the vibrations emitted by the Temporomandibular Joint in a group of 54 patients while they performed mouth opening and closing movements as well as when at rest. The results were presented in graphics in the timeline and in descriptive tables. The new method helped forward understanding the articular movements dynamics, besides being sufficiently selective in making a distinction between individuals with normal articulation and those who presented crack In that structure. The technique has also proved to be valid in a complementary examination of TMJ with the following advantages: it is a nonf invasive, a nonfionizing radiation, and a lowfcost examination.