CLINICAL APPLICATION OF THE MODJAW DIGITAL SYSTEM IN FUNCTIONAL DENTAL REHABILITATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2522-1795.2026.20.1.2Słowa kluczowe:
digital articulator, mandibular kinematics, functional occlusion, jaw tracking, temporomandibular joint, bruxismAbstrakt
The aim of this narrative review was to analyze current evidence on the clinical application of the MODJAW digital jaw-tracking system and related dynamic technologies, with a focus on their diagnostic value, accuracy, limitations, and perspectives for integration into contemporary dental practice.
Materials and Methods. A narrative review of the literature published between 2013 and 2025 was conducted using PubMed, MDPI, DOAJ, Ovid, and Google Scholar databases. The search strategy included the following keywords: MODJAW, jaw tracking system dentistry, mandibular kinematics, digital occlusion movement tracker, virtual articulator movement, and 4D dentistry. Eligible publications included clinical studies, in vitro accuracy assessments, comparative analyses with conventional articulators, and review articles addressing dynamic jaw tracking and virtual articulation systems.
Results. The analysis demonstrated that the implementation of dynamic jaw-tracking systems represents a paradigm shift from static occlusal analysis toward functional evaluation of mandibular kinematics. The MODJAW system showed high precision and repeatability in recording mandibular movements, with accuracy comparable to industrial-grade three-dimensional scanning systems when standardized calibration protocols were applied. Multiple studies confirmed reliable hinge-axis identification and reproducible condylar pathway registration, independent of bite registration materials.
Clinically, dynamic jaw tracking enabled improved assessment of excursive movements, condylar guidance, and occlusal contact distribution during functional activities such as mastication. Compared with conventional mechanical and static virtual articulators, MODJAW provided superior visualization of complex mandibular trajectories and facilitated early identification of functional disturbances, including eccentric bruxism and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. In orthodontics, measurable differences in mandibular kinematics across skeletal classes supported individualized treatment planning. In prosthodontics, enhanced accuracy of virtual articulation was associated with a reduced risk of occlusal discrepancies and improved communication with CAD/CAM workflows through direct data export.
Conclusions. The MODJAW system represents a promising tool for digital functional dental rehabilitation, offering objective real-time assessment of mandibular kinematics beyond static articulation. Current evidence suggests that dynamic digital articulators enhance diagnostic accuracy and support personalized treatment planning. However, successful clinical implementation requires further standardization, validation, and clinician training to ensure consistent and reliable use in daily practice.
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