Visualization of mandibular movement relative to the maxilla during mastication in mice: integration of kinematic analysis and reconstruction of a three-dimensional model of the maxillofacial structure.

Background: Mastication is one of the most fundamental functions for the conservation of human life. To clarify the pathogenetic mechanism of various oral dysfunctions, the demand for devices for evaluating stomatognathic function has been increasing. The aim of the present study was to develop a system to reconstruct and visualize 3-dimensional (3D) mandibular movements relative to the maxilla, including dynamic transition of occlusal contacts between the upper and lower dentitions during mastication in mice.

Predisposing conditions for condylar sag after intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy.

Intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO) is used to treat mandibular prognathism and temporomandibular disorders. However, the improvement of temporomandibular disorders after IVRO is considered to be due to the anterior and downward movement of the mandibular condyle, which may lead to condylar sag, and in the worst case, condylar luxation. In this retrospective cohort study, we examined factors potentially associated with condylar sag.

Development and evaluation of a jaw-tracking system for mice: reconstruction of three-dimensional movement trajectories on an arbitrary point on the mandible.

Background: Mastication is one of the most fundamental functions for the conservation of life. The demand for devices for evaluating stomatognathic function, for instance, recording mandibular movements or masticatory muscle activities using animal models, has been increasing in recent years to elucidate neuromuscular control mechanisms of mastication and to investigate the etiology of oral motor disorders. To identify the fundamental characteristics of the jaw movements of mice, we developed a new device that reconstructs the three-dimensional (3D) movement trajectories on an arbitrary point on the mandible during mastication.

Influence of malocclusion on the development of masticatory function and mandibular growth.

Objective: To verify the hypothesis that appropriate acquisition of masticatory function and normal growth of the mandible are modified by malocclusion.

Materials And Methods: Eighteen Jcl:ICR mice were divided into two groups. In one group we shifted the mandible laterally using an occlusal guidance appliance, creating a posterior crossbite at 5 weeks of age.