Importance of Condylography
Condylography is crucial in assessing condylar movements during mandibular motion, as measuring these movements allows us to identify:
- Anatomy Evaluation: It suggests anatomical variations of the mandibular condyle and mandibular fossa, facilitating the identification of structural changes that may be related to TMD.
- Condylar Movement: It evaluates condylar movements during mouth opening and closing, enabling the dentist to analyze how the joint functions in different positions.
- Identification of Pathological Changes: Condylography helps detect conditions such as articular disc displacement, arthritis, osteoarthritis, bone changes, and fractures.
- Treatment Planning: The personalized data obtained from condylography can be used to design individualized treatments, aiding in therapeutic interventions such as orthodontics, prosthetics, occlusal adjustments, occlusal splints, or surgical procedures.
How Condylography is Performed
This procedure is used in dentistry to record and analyze jaw movements, especially in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Here are the general steps of the process:
- Preparation of Materials: This exam requires the preparation of some materials beforehand, which may include laboratory work using plaster models and occlusal and para-occlusal forks.
- Patient Preparation: The patient is comfortably positioned in the dental chair.
- Placement of Facial Arches and Sensors: A cranial facial arch and a mandibular facial arch are placed, equipped with sensors that record mandibular movements. The upper facial arch is worn like glasses and adjusted, while the mandibular facial arch is fixed to the patient’s lower arch.
- Recording Movements: The dentist asks the patient to perform jaw movements such as opening, closing, lateral movements, and protrusion. The condylograph records these movements as graphs, creating a pattern for analysis.
- Marking Reference Points: Three points are marked on the patient’s skin using adhesive bandages and metallic spheres. These points are used for radiographic and cephalometric studies. After the condylography, the patient is referred for radiographic acquisition.
- Data Analysis: The collected data is analyzed to identify any TMJ dysfunctions, occlusion problems, or mandibular movement deviations.
- Treatment Planning: Based on the obtained information, the dentist can plan appropriate treatment, which may include physiotherapy, orthodontics, or even surgical intervention, depending on the diagnosis.
Condylography is a valuable tool for understanding jaw dynamics and aiding in the treatment of related dysfunctions.
Condylography Results
The results of condylography can reveal various conditions, including:
- Articular Disc Displacement: When the articular disc, which acts as a cushion between the condyle and the mandibular fossa, is not in its proper position.
- Degenerative Changes: Such as arthritis or osteoarthritis, which can cause joint wear and pain.
- Fractures: Assessment of jaw fractures to determine the correct position for fixation or stabilization of the jaw and TMJ.
Advantages of Condylography
- Precise Analysis: Provides a detailed analysis of TMJ function and movement, allowing for more accurate problem identification.
- Visual Documentation: The system generates graphs and reports that help visualize data, facilitating communication between healthcare professionals and patients.
- Evaluation of Functional Variations: Enables the assessment of mandibular movement variations in different situations, helping to better understand joint behavior.
- Scientific Basis: The equipment used is based on research and clinical practices, enhancing the credibility of diagnoses made with its assistance.
- Facilitates Treatment: With precise information, professionals can develop more effective and personalized treatment plans.
- Monitoring Results: Allows tracking treatment progress over time, making adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
Condylography is a valuable tool for the clinical individualization of patients. In TMJ assessment, it enables a more precise diagnosis of conditions affecting the TMJ and jaw. In rehabilitative treatment planning, it allows customization in the fabrication of prosthetic components and/or the proper guidance of orthodontic movements. Its ability to provide detailed information about the anatomical trajectory and function of the mandibular condyle is essential for formulating effective treatment plans for patients with temporomandibular disorders. The exam should be performed by trained professionals in an appropriate environment to ensure patient accuracy and safety.
