The TMJ Sound Scout: Device to diagnose Temporomandibular Joint Sound

Abstract

Aims: Training and teaching the students about the temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and related sounds which can be used for its diagnosis is difficult for both teacher and students in terms of explanation and understanding. It is difficult for operator to explain about the condition of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds in disease state and same way it is difficult to understand as patients. There is a need for a simple and handy device that can be used for teaching purpose in classrooms and institutional dental clinics and also for patients’ education and diagnosis. This paper presents a meek, easy to assemble, and economic electronic device to diagnose and record TMJ sounds. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are very common in the current era due to stressful lifestyle and working environment. Some of them remain unnoticed and undiagnosed due to lack of patient motivation, education, and also due to lack of operators’ knowledge and skill to diagnose the same. Students’ training and education also need reform and advancement in the field of TMDs. The paper explains about manufacturing of simple and handy device to diagnose and record TMJ sounds. The instrument can be used for teaching and training of students in teaching institutes and clinics. It can also be used for patient education purpose.