Analysis of Jaw Movements and Muscle Activity During Mastication with JawReports Software

We are currently developing new software for simultaneous visualisation and analysis of computerized recorded masticatory function and masticatory muscle activity. With the software, motion data recorded using the Jaw Motion Analyser and EMG data on masseter muscle activity can be uploaded in order to evaluate chewing activity immediately proximal to the occlusal surfaces. The software successfully differentiated between jaw opening and closing movements and filtered out muscle activity peaks, which were graphically depicted in the respective movement trajectories. This tracking strategy made it possible to visualize the movement sectors where chewing forces were effective and to estimate the strength of these forces. In the future, this software should improve our ability to analyze and assess the development of chewing forces. Therefore, it could provide a tool for optimal planning of implant-supported or CAD/CAM restorations. Keywords: masseter muscle activity, electromyography, jaw motion, masticatory movements, electronic motion analysis