The missing link between patient, clinic & lab:
Jaw Motion Technology
As a digital dental clinic and lab, few innovations have fundamentally transformed our work as much as jaw motion technology. Jaw motion tracking records a patient’s jaw movements, providing a comprehensive understanding of their bite and jaw function in real-time. This invaluable data allows us to simulate outcomes, plan treatments, and design dental restorations that fit both statically and dynamically.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about jaw motion tracking: The advantages of the technology, the steps to perform a jaw motion analysis, our recommended jaw motion and the cost of implementing this innovative tool.
What is jaw motion technology?
Jaw motion technology enables you to observe and analyze the movements of your patient’s jaw in real time. Unlike intraoral scans, which rely solely on static 3D scans, jaw motion tracking adds a dynamic, four-dimensional aspect to dental diagnostics. This means that dentists can now see not only how a patient's teeth are aligned, but also their natural, spontaneous motion patterns such as chewing, speaking, or grinding.
The shift from static to dynamic records provides a complete and accurate understanding of individual occlusal dynamics. Dentists and technicians no longer work with incomplete or potentially inaccurate data - jaw motion technology fills in the gaps, ensuring that every aspect of a patient's jaw function is taken into account. Not only does this knowledge help us formulate more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans, but it also enables us to create highly customized solutions that address each patient's unique functional needs.
Jaw motion technology is the missing link between the patient, the dental clinic, and the digital lab.
By redefining diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient outcomes, it offers a level of precision and efficiency that was previously unattainable.
The benefits of jaw motion technology
More accurate diagnosis
One of the most significant benefits of jaw motion technology is its ability to vastly improve diagnostic accuracy. For conditions like temporomandibular disorders (TMD), where the mechanics of jaw movement are critical, this technology provides insights that static records simply cannot match. By visualizing the full range of jaw motion, dentists can identify subtle dysfunctions that might otherwise be missed with the traditional static 3D approach.
Better treatment planning and outcomes
But jaw motion technology goes beyond diagnosis. Dental technicians can use motion data during the treatment planning to test-drive new occlusal designs, create anatomically accurate bite lifts, and help the treatment team plan future restorations. With a complete understanding of the exact jaw movements, they can design restorations that fit perfectly and ensure long-term success. This level of precision is particularly valuable in complex cases, such as full-mouth reconstructions, where every detail matters.
Streamlined treatment workflow
In addition to enhanced clinical outcomes, jaw motion technology also significantly improves workflow efficiency. Traditional methods often require multiple appointments for adjustments and fine-tuning. However, with jaw motion technology, full-mouth procedures that once took five to seven appointments can now be completed in just three to four sessions, since the precise planning and execution from the outset is minimizing the need for time-consuming corrections.
Enhanced collaboration between dentists and technicians
Moreover, jaw motion technology enhances communication between dentists and dental technicians. When both parties have access to the same detailed, dynamic data, collaboration becomes more effective. Technicians can design restorations that perfectly align with the dentist’s plan, resulting in a smoother treatment process.
Higher patient satisfaction
It’s incredibly rewarding to watch patients see their jaw movements in 4D for the first time. By seeing their jaw movements in 4D, they gain a deeper understanding of their dental situation and become more engaged in their treatment. You can use the visual experience to educate and reassure them. It makes your patients active participants in their dental health, leading to more informed and collaborative discussions about their treatment plans and greater confidence in the outcome.
Should I adopt jaw motion technology in my practice?
But as great as jaw motion tracking is, we wouldn't necessarily recommend buying a jaw motion tracker for everyone. While jaw motion technology can be a valuable addition to many dental practices, it is particularly beneficial for clinics that are actively embracing digital transformation. You are in a strong position to integrate jaw motion trackers like MODJAW into your practice if…
you've already invested in digital dentistry,
own and regularly use an intraoral scanner,
and are becoming increasingly comfortable with digital workflows.
This technology is ideal for those who value collaboration with their lab, appreciate a good diagnostic wax-up and are always looking for ways to improve the function, aesthetics and efficiency of their treatments. We would particularly recommend it to dentists who focus on comprehensive dentistry and regularly deal with larger, more complicated cases.
Which Jaw Motion Tracker Should I Buy?
When deciding which jaw motion tracker to invest in, it’s important to consider the technology that best suits your practice's needs. There are several systems available, using a variety of tracking methods, such as optical, electromagnetic, and ultrasonic technologies.
At our clinic, we chose the optical MODJAW system due to its high level of accuracy and intuitive software design. One of the key reasons we selected MODJAW is because it’s the only system currently on the market that connects jaw position data to critical reference points on the skull. This feature is particularly useful when designing complex restorations, functioning as an exceptionally accurate digital facebow.
Since we implemented MODJAW in our clinic in 2019, it has become a cornerstone of our digital workflow and an integral part of every treatment. We believe that every patient, whether they need a single crown or a full-mouth reconstruction, deserves the most precise and natural occlusion possible—and MODJAW helps us deliver just that.
How to use the MODJAW device to capture jaw motion data
Using the MODJAW device is straightforward, yet highly effective. The system is built around a high-capacity computer, an ultra-precise stereo-optic camera, and reflective elements that are attached to the patient's head and jaw. This ensures accurate, real-time tracking of your patient’s jaw movements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to performing a MODJAW analysis:
Step 1: Patient Preparation
Ensure the patient understands the process and is comfortable. Explain the importance of maintaining head stability and performing consistent jaw movements to collect accurate data.
Step 2: Device Setup
Upload the patient's 3D models and align them in the system. Secure the bite fork, Smil'it, and tiara to the patient’s jaw and head and ensure everything is correctly positioned. The camera should be placed approximately 80cm from the patient’s head, directly in front, for optimal data capture.
Step 3: Data Capture
Once calibrated, guide the patient through a series of jaw movements including protrusion, lateral movements, and various functional movements like speaking or chewing. Each movement is recorded multiple times to ensure precision and consistency.
Step 4: Data Processing
The captured jaw motion data is processed by the system, translating it into a comprehensive 4D model that allows for real-time analysis of the patient’s jaw movements. This step provides invaluable insights into the patient’s occlusal dynamics.
Step 5: Model Analysis
The analysis of the 4D model is where the true value of MODJAW comes into play. You can examine the range and smoothness of jaw movements, identify any abnormal movements, and understand the interplay between different parts of the jaw.
This comprehensive analysis is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and for planning complex treatments that require a precise understanding of jaw functionality.
Step 6: Treatment Planning
The detailed motion data provides an excellent basis for a precise and predictable treatment. For example, if an asymmetry in movement is detected, the treatment plan can be adjusted to ensure a better functional and aesthetic outcome.
You can simulate different treatment scenarios in the model before the actual physical treatment begins. This allows you to simulate designs, preview prosthetic results and ensure that the digital plans are perfectly aligned with the physical treatments.
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What does a jaw motion tracker cost and is it worth it?
After understanding how jaw motion technology can enhance both treatment precision and workflow efficiency, the next logical question is: What does a jaw motion tracker cost, and is it a worthwhile investment? In our clinic, we invested in the MODJAW device, which typically costs between €27,000 and €30,000. While this may seem like a significant investment upfront, the return on investment (ROI) is substantial.
A typical jaw tracking session costs between €250 and €300. The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes and can be performed by you or your dental assistant. Based on these figures, you can expect to cover the initial cost with 80 to 100 trackings. This will probably take you one to two years. In comparison, our clinic's team of five dentists performs three to five MODJAW analyses per day. This adds up to about 600 to 800 analyses each year.
While it only takes a few minutes to perform a MODJAW analysis once you've mastered the technique, it does take some initial training to integrate the technology seamlessly into your workflow. This means that the investment goes beyond the equipment - it also includes the time spent learning to use the system efficiently.
However, by streamlining appointments and improving treatment accuracy, jaw motion technology ultimately saves time, improves patient satisfaction and delivers exceptional patient care.
Moving forward with 4D motion data and MODJAW
In conclusion, integrating 4D motion tracking with MODJAW can transform the way you diagnose and treat your patients. By capturing the full range of jaw movements, you can identify subtle dysfunctions that may be missed with static imaging techniques. The level of detail supports a more accurate diagnosis and increases the precision of our treatment. In addition, the ability to simulate different therapeutic interventions before the actual treatment begins allows you to better predict outcomes and make proactive adjustments.
If you're ready to invest in digital dentistry tools and workflows, and your focus is on providing comprehensive care, we strongly recommend you consider the MODJAW device. For dentists who are committed to providing the best possible care, adopting jaw motion technology is not just an investment in technology, it is an investment in the future of their practice.
Patients benefit from faster recovery times and more sustainable results as treatments are fine-tuned to their specific dynamics. Ultimately, integrating MODJAW’s 4D Motion Tracking into your practice will enable you to deliver dental care that truly combines innovation with the art of dentistry, increasing patient satisfaction and treatment success.