What is Ethology

This chapter describes Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA) technology that assesses pathological changes that can occur within the Temporomandibular joints. Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA) uses tissue accelerometers to objectively capture vibrations given off by structurally compromised internal TM Joint anatomy. The structural breakdown leads to altered mandibular movement patterns during chewing function. Different attributes of representative JVA vibrations have been shown to indicate the presence of various disease states often seen within the Temporomandibular Joint complex. After being recorded, the JVA software displays the various vibration waveforms for clinician analysis to determine the specific internal derangement present. This chapter provides an overview of the various vibratory waveforms that indicate TM Joint pathology and illustrates the utility of Joint Vibration Analysis as a Temporomandibular Joint diagnostic adjunct.