MANDIBULAR MOVEMENTS: RECENT ADVANCEMENTS AND FUTURE TRENDS-A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

ABSTRACT

Background: The stomatognathic system's functional and biomechanical foundation is made up of mandibular movements. For prosthodontic diagnosis, occlusal rehabilitation, temporomandibular disorder (TMD) treatment, and implant-supported prosthesis design, precise characterization of the mandibular border and functional excursions is essential. Posselt, Gysi, and McCollum are credited with developing the fundamental kinematic envelope that still serves as the basis for clinical practice.

Goals: The development of mandibular movement science from mechanistic descriptions to modern digital, sensor-based, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted paradigms is critically evaluated in this review. It assesses the clinical effects of these developments in TMD treatment, oral rehabilitation, and prosthodontics.

Methods: Using peer-reviewed literature from the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases that was published between 1960 and 2024, a narrative synthesis was carried out. Mandibular kinematics, jaw tracking, condylar path, digital occlusion, 3D jaw motion, articulators, temporomandibular disorders, and CAD/CAM occlusion were among the search terms used.Studies that included clinical guidelines, systematic reviews, and original research were assessed.

Results: The spatial characterization of mandibular movements has been greatly improved by developments in three-dimensional (3D) jaw tracking, electromagnetic axiography, optoelectronic systems, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) integration, and digital workflow technologies. Advances in neuromuscular dentistry, computerized occlusal analysis, and AI-driven predictive modeling are examples of paradigm-shifting technologies. Robotic simulation, biofeedback rehabilitation, and customized digital occlusal frameworks are examples of future directions.

In conclusion, precision science has replaced empirical mechanical observation in the study of mandibular movements. With the use of digital jaw motion technologies, clinicians can provide better rehabilitation results based on patient-specific biomechanical data.

KEYWORDS: Mandibular kinematics; Jaw tracking; Condylar path; Articulators; CAD/CAM; 3D Jaw motion; Neuromuscular dentistry.