Functional analysis

Initially all the movements of the lower jaw are examined. An exact analysis is the most important requirement for the diagnosis many different syndromes, which are usually associated with incorrect loading of the temporomandibular joint or dysfunctions.

By different kinds of testing methods as in manual, instrumental or computerised functional diagnosis, the dentists of iDentis can find the reasons for the dysfunctions. Those can be disorders of the joint function, muscular tensions or generally disordered courses of movement.

The most frequent reason of a dysfunction within our field of dentistry is the length loss of teeth, incorrect tooth contacts, prosthetic restorations or abrasion also associated with erosion, as well as other dysfunctions with organs, organic systems or jaws can cause a dysfunction with the masticatory system.

The CMD (craniomandibular Dysfunction) is the most known dysfunction of the masticatory system. It can affect other physiological bodily functions or can be caused by other dysfunctions or structural organ disorders.

This is why it is important to localize the dysfunction and to identify the dimensions of it. Based on this, we make our diagnosis and can then deduce the best therapy. In accordance the dentists of iDentis work together with a regional and over regional interdisciplinary network of medical doctors and therapists in the fields as ENT (ear, nose, and throat specialists), neurology, orthopaedics, physiotherapy and osteopathy.

The functional analysis is the most important requirement for the manufacturing of highly precise prosthetics in form of inlays, crowns, bridges or prostheses.

Clinical functional analysis

Clinical functional analysis includes the manual functional analysis.

By doing the manual functional analysis the single muscle groups of the masticatory system, the muscle groups of the cervical spine and shoulders, as well as the muscular regulation for walking and standing are scanned by us. Also the movements of your lower jaw and the temporomandibular joint will be palpated.

Alongside the results of the manual functional diagnosis, the sound of movement also belongs to the clinical functional diagnosis. Crackling, clicking, creaking or presses. These sounds can be perceived by a stethoscope or electronically and give information on a displacement of the cartilage in the temporomandibular joint.

Instrumental functional analysis

The instrumental functional analysis takes place in the laboratory on the dental chair. Therefore we need imprints of the dental arch and different types of bite registrations. By means of a face-bow we determine the position of the upper jaw in relation to the temporomandibular jaw.

With all this information, a so-called articulator is programmed with your dental arch. The instrumental functional analysis can now take place by slow movements of the jaw. Through this procedure we can match the motion sequence of the lower jaw and match it to the upper jaw three-dimensionally. This individual status gives us feedback of irregularities and glitches.

Computer aided functional analysis

The computer aided 3D-functional analysis in our surgery is completed by the Zebris JMA-analyser. This system works as a contact-free measuring technique based on ultrasonic pulses.

The high-precision data allows function-analytical examinations, defines the best neuromuscular bite position, especially in patients with implants, and gives all parameters to program mechanical and virtual articulators.

This system records all individual transaction data of patients. The functional-analytical examinations can analyse and document discoordination, disorders of motion sequences, mouth opening restrictions, hypermobility of the temporomandibular jaw.

The functional analysis with the Zebris Jaw-Motion-Analyser-System is one of the leading, scientificly established digital procedures to recognise temporomandibular disorders. This precise information is needed to restore functionality.

On the basis of this information our dental laboratory produces precise splints to relieve the whole masticatory system. When the symptoms subside our dental laboratory then produces permanent relieving prosthetics.

Functional therapy

When the functional analysis has taken place, the exact diagnosis can be made. Afterwards, indicated splints which are made up of a composite will be produced by our laboratory for you to wear.

In the case of a craniomandibular disorder therapy, functional splints are very effective. The splints distribute the chewing pressure and relieve the mandibular joint. At the same time the single tooth will be matched to the original touch- and guiding functions, meaning all posterior teeth will have an even tooth contact. The anterior teeth and canines will limit the lateral movement of the lower jaw by themselves for overload protection.

This kind of splint in combination with other therapeutic methods will show a reduction of discomfort. The treatment with other forms of splints is clearly not proven and may include some risks.

These functional splints need to be worn until the set position of the teeth is reached. Later, other necessary corrections such as the replacement of cervical restorations, prosthetics or high-quality implant work are realised. This ensures no need for rework or multiple makings. The necessary correction by adapting your new teeth individually is minimized.

Even without any complaint, we especially pay attention to the length of your new dental prosthesis.

The posterior teeth erode in the course of life by material abrasion. Following, there is a loss of length. This is recognizable by a shorter lower face, which means the region below the nose and chin is briefer.

Abraded teeth will make the lips appear thinner and the corners of the mouth curl. Altogether resulting in a pinched appearance with a clear development of wrinkles around the lip area.

In the case of prosthetic rehabilitation in combination with a new defined bite positon, we also need to pay attention to a new profile of the lower face.