A device for measuring mandibular protrusion displacement and a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement.

Abstract

This invention discloses a mandibular protrusion measurement device and a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion. The mandibular protrusion measurement device includes a handle, an occlusal portion, and a limiting portion. The handle is connected to the occlusal portion; the limiting portion is located between the handle and the occlusal portion and is erected on the upper end of the occlusal portion, forming a space for the upper anterior teeth by clamping the limiting portion and the upper surface of the occlusal portion; a scale marking portion is provided at the lower end of the occlusal portion, with the scale marking portion arranged from the end of the occlusal portion away from the handle to the limiting portion. The device of this invention has a simple structure and is easy to use, providing a physical support structure for the patient and improving the diagnostic experience for both doctors and patients. The protrusion measurement obtained by this device also provides a reference for subsequent treatment, which is beneficial for accurate repositioning of the articular disc and condyle. The method of this invention can obtain imaging information under dynamic joint conditions, obtain the minimum mandibular protrusion position, and provide reliable information for both doctors and patients, possessing higher reliability and validity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to a mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device and a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement. Background Technology

[0002] Anterior disc displacement (ADD) is a common clinical condition in dentistry. It refers to the anterior displacement of the articular disc beyond its normal position during tooth cusp intercuspaling (the posterior border of the disc is located above or slightly behind the transverse ridge of the condyle). Based on whether the disc-condyle relationship can be restored to normal during mouth opening, ADD is classified as reversible or irreversible. Reversible ADD occurs when the disc can rebound posteriorly to restore the normal disc-condyle position during mouth opening; irreversible ADD occurs when the condyle slides forward and downward, but the disc cannot rebound posteriorly and remains in an anteriorly displaced state. Patients with ADD may experience pain, clicking, and abnormal mandibular movement in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). When ADD occurs, especially during adolescence and growth, it affects jawbone development. If left untreated, it can easily lead to mandibular retrusion or deviation, causing secondary dentofacial deformities.

[0003] Treatment for reducible anterior displacement of the temporomandibular joint disc is primarily conservative, typically involving treatment education, medication, physical therapy, occlusal splints, or surgical methods such as joint lavage, arthroscopic reduction, or open surgery. Currently, a relatively effective conservative treatment is the use of anterior repositioning splints (ARS), which can immediately eliminate clicking and locking symptoms, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has also confirmed that the disc can be well repositioned.

[0004] The mechanism of ARS (Adhesive Reduction Surgery) for repositioning the articular disc is as follows: during mouth closure, the mandible moves forward, guiding the condyle forward and preventing the disc, which has already moved posteriorly and superiorly and been repositioned during mouth closure (after the snapping sound), from shifting forward again during closure. The ARS acts as a fixation mechanism. Therefore, before treating the patient, the treatment position for disc-condyle repositioning needs to be determined first, and then the corresponding ARS fabricated for that position. However, the determination of the treatment position for disc-condyle in related techniques is greatly influenced by subjective factors, making it difficult to accurately determine the treatment position and thus affecting the effectiveness of disc-condyle repositioning. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention discloses a mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device and a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement, in order to improve the accuracy of the articular disc-condyle treatment position.

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a mandibular protrusion measurement device, comprising a handle, an occlusal portion, and a limiting portion, wherein the handle is connected to the occlusal portion; the limiting portion is disposed between the handle and the occlusal portion, and the limiting portion is erected on the upper end of the occlusal portion, and the limiting portion and the upper surface of the occlusal portion are clamped to form a space for placing the upper anterior teeth; a scale marking portion is provided at the lower end of the occlusal portion, and the scale marking portion is disposed along a first direction, the first direction being the direction from the end of the occlusal portion away from the handle to the limiting portion.

[0008] The mandibular protrusion measurement device disclosed in this invention converts the movement of the articular disc-condyle into the mandibular protrusion, presenting it visually and making diagnosis easier for doctors. The device is simple in structure and easy to use, providing a physical support structure for the patient, allowing for better cooperation during diagnosis and improving the diagnostic experience for both parties. Simultaneously, the protrusion measured by this device provides a reference for subsequent treatment, facilitating accurate repositioning of the articular disc-condyle.

[0009] Secondly, the present invention provides a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion, which measures the temporomandibular joint disc protrusion based on the aforementioned mandibular protrusion measuring device, and includes the following steps:

[0010] The mandibular protrusion measurement device is placed in the patient's first occlusal position, which is the patient's habitual occlusal position.

[0011] Based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device, a first scale value is obtained. The first scale value is the scale value of the scale marking part corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the first occlusal position.

[0012] The second occlusal position is determined based on ultrasound imaging. The second occlusal position is the occlusal position of the mandible when it is repositioned between the articular disc and the condyle.

[0013] The second scale value is obtained based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device. The second scale value is the scale value of the scale marking part corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the second occlusal position.

[0014] The minimum mandibular protrusion is obtained based on the first and second scales.

[0015] The technical solution adopted in this invention achieves the following beneficial effects: The method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion in this invention combines a mandibular protrusion measurement device with ultrasound imaging to obtain the minimum protrusion, i.e., the mandibular extension distance when the patient's mandibular protrusion distance is minimal and the articular disc-condylar relationship is in a normal position. This invention can sensitively capture and record subtle articular disc movements that are difficult to detect using clinical methods, and can obtain imaging information in the dynamic state of the joint. It eliminates the need for multiple long-term examinations and adjustments, greatly reducing the burden on patients and possessing higher reliability and validity. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a bottom view of the mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a side view of the mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the use of the mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion according to an embodiment of this application.

[0022] In the picture:

[0023] 10-Eating part, 11-First arc-shaped edge, 12-Second arc-shaped edge, 20-Handle part, 30-Limiting part, 31-Toothed strip, Insertion end-A. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the technical solutions of this invention will be described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this invention, all other implementation methods obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0025] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0026] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1 to 4 The mandibular protrusion displacement measuring device provided in this application will be described in detail through specific embodiments and application scenarios.

[0027] The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is mainly composed of the mandibular condyle, temporal glenoid fossa, articular tubercle, articular disc, joint cavity, and soft tissue ligaments. It is one of the most complex joints in human anatomy and also one of the most functionally demanding. The TMD, along with other bones, nerves, and muscles of the maxillofacial region, forms a system primarily responsible for a series of opening and closing movements, including speaking, chewing, swallowing, and facial expressions. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is a group of diseases affecting the masticatory muscles and / or the temporomandibular joint and its related structures. Depending on the severity of the lesion, TMD often presents with different clinical symptoms and signs, such as clicking or crepitus during mandibular movement, limited or locked mouth opening, pain or swelling in the temporomandibular joint area, difficulty chewing, facial asymmetry, and tinnitus. These symptoms can severely impact a patient's quality of life and mental health. Therefore, TMD is considered the fourth most common oral disease after dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion, and the third most common chronic pain disorder after back pain and tension headaches.

[0028] Before using anterior disc retraction (ARS) to treat patients with reversible anterior displacement of the mandible (ADD), the mandibular position determined by the clinician is crucial to the success of the treatment. Previously, the most commonly used and generally accepted ARS treatment position was: for patients with reversible anterior displacement of the mandible, instruct them to open their mouths wide, then have them protrude their mandibles to the minimum distance while ensuring no clicking sound occurs when opening and closing the mouth. This position indicates that the displaced disc has been repositioned, also known as the treatment position or the clicking-free position. Therefore, controlling the amount of mandibular protrusion is key to the treatment. Too little movement results in incomplete disc repositioning, while too much movement puts significant pressure on the masticatory muscles, causing chewing discomfort. Therefore, ARS treatment requires finding the "minimum mandibular protrusion position," that is, the position where the patient's mandible protrudes the least and the disc-condylar relationship is normal. However, determining the treatment position relies heavily on the subjective judgment of both the doctor and the patient, and is greatly influenced by subjective factors, easily affecting subsequent treatment and ARS fabrication, ultimately leading to incomplete disc repositioning.

[0029] To address this, this application provides a mandibular protrusion measurement device. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 The mandibular protrusion measurement device includes a handle 20, an occlusal part 10, and a limiting part 30. The handle 20 is connected to the occlusal part 10. The limiting part 30 is located between the handle 20 and the occlusal part 10, and the limiting part 30 is erected on the upper end of the occlusal part 10. The limiting part 30 and the upper surface of the occlusal part 10 are clamped to form a space for placing the upper anterior teeth. The lower end of the occlusal part 10 is provided with a scale marking part, which is set along a first direction, the first direction being from the end of the occlusal part 10 away from the handle 20 to the limiting part 30.

[0030] The handle 20 can be connected to the occlusal part 10 as a hand grip, allowing the user to hold the handle 20 and insert the occlusal part 10 into the patient's mouth, making it easier for the user to control the occlusal part 10 and place it in the predetermined position. The handle 20 also prevents the user from directly contacting the occlusal part 10, thus avoiding contamination of the patient's mouth or causing discomfort to the patient.

[0031] The occlusal portion 10 is a key component for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement, assisting the patient in this measurement. During measurement, the patient's maxilla and mandible occlude on the occlusal portion 10, controlling the protrusion of the mandibular anterior teeth. This leaves a bite mark indicating the treatment position on the lower scale marking of the occlusal portion 10. Combining this with the bite mark from the patient's initial habitual occlusal position, the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement can be obtained. The occlusal portion 10 transfers the movement of the articular disc-condyle to the movement of the mandibular anterior teeth, thus indirectly reflecting the treatment position of the articular disc-condyle, providing a reference for subsequent treatment and ARS fabrication.

[0032] A limiting part 30 is provided at the upper end of the occlusal portion 10 to fix the position of the measuring device in the oral cavity and prevent the measuring device from moving in the oral cavity, which would affect the final measurement data. The limiting part 30 can abut against the upper anterior teeth of the maxilla, that is, the upper anterior teeth abut against and limit the measuring device. When the mandible moves forward, the abutting direction of the measuring device is opposite to the direction of mandibular extension, thus ensuring that the measuring device will not become loose.

[0033] Please see Figure 2 The lower end of the occlusal portion 10 is provided with a graduated marking section, which is used to record the bite marks of the mandible in different occlusal positions. By comparing the initial habitual occlusal position with the articular disc repositioned occlusal position, the minimum mandibular protrusion displacement is presented. The graduated marking section is positioned along a first direction, that is, along the direction of mandibular protrusion. Figure 1 As shown, the first direction is the X direction, which is the same as the direction from the end of the occlusal part 10 away from the handle part 20 to the limiting part 30. The end of the occlusal part 10 away from the handle part 20 is the insertion end A, and the direction from the insertion end A to the limiting part 30 is the first direction. When using the occlusal part 10, the insertion end A of the occlusal part 10 is inserted into the oral cavity along the first direction, and the scale markings of the occlusal part 10 are positioned in the mandibular extension direction to measure the mandibular extension. To facilitate diagnosis, occlusal marks can be left at the scale markings of the occlusal part 10. The entire occlusal part 10 or the scale markings can be made of soft material.

[0034] Compared to the subjective judgment of doctors and patients in related technologies, the embodiments of this application use a measuring device to assist doctors in diagnosing patients and obtain the minimum extension displacement of the mandible through the occlusal part 10, that is, to obtain the minimum extension displacement of the mandible, which provides a reference for the subsequent treatment process and is beneficial to the accurate repositioning of the articular disc-condyle.

[0035] In this embodiment, the occlusal portion 10 provides physical support for the patient during the diagnostic process of the treatment position, helping the patient maintain an occlusal posture at different occlusal positions, reducing the number of times the patient repeatedly opens and closes their mouth during the diagnostic process, or the number of times the patient remains in an open-mouthed state for extended periods. Therefore, the measuring device in this embodiment provides a more convenient and comfortable experience for the patient during the diagnostic process, reducing fatigue and discomfort.

[0036] Please refer to some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The scale marking section has multiple toothed strips 31, which are arranged parallel to each other along the first direction, and the distance between adjacent toothed strips 31 is 0.5mm to 1.5mm.

[0037] The graduated markings are set as a toothed strip 31, creating an uneven area in the lower measurement region of the occlusal portion 10. The patient controls the movement of the lower anterior teeth along the direction of the graduated markings. The lower anterior teeth contact the graduated markings on the toothed strip 31, applying resistance to the lower anterior teeth and preventing excessively rapid movement. This prevents the dentist from immediately and clearly observing the treatment position, missing the minimum protrusion position of the lower anterior teeth, and requiring the patient to repeat the mandibular protrusion movement to obtain a diagnostic result. Simultaneously, the graduated markings on the toothed strip 31 guide the patient's mandibular protrusion during diagnosis. Since the patient is in a biting position during diagnosis and cannot visually determine the correct direction of mandibular protrusion, the graduated markings, positioned along the direction of mandibular protrusion, allow the patient to gradually move in the direction of the graduated markings using the raised toothed strip 31. The spaced toothed strips 31 serve as a reference for patients to determine the direction of mandibular extension, ensuring that the patient's extension is along the correct guiding direction, which helps doctors obtain accurate diagnostic results.

[0038] Optionally, the spacing between the toothed strips 31 can be set to 0.5mm to 1.5mm, with 1.0mm being preferred, to facilitate confirmation of positional relationships and calculation of the minimum protrusion of the lower anterior teeth. Setting the spacing too large reduces measurement accuracy, making it impossible to obtain a precise amount of protrusion; setting it too small requires the patient to move forward along the scale markings more frequently during measurement, increasing diagnostic time and affecting diagnostic efficiency.

[0039] Optionally, the cross-section of the toothed strip 31 is a semi-circle or an equilateral triangle. If the cross-section of the toothed strip 31 is an equilateral triangle, the side length of the cross-section is 0.5 to 2 mm, preferably 1 mm. Of course, the toothed shape in this application is not limited to the shape mentioned in the embodiments, but also includes other shapes suitable for this application, such as square, rectangle, trapezoid, etc.

[0040] Please refer to some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 The scale marking section has a first marking area and a second marking area arranged opposite to each other. The first marking area and the second marking area are connected by a 0 mark, and the 0 mark is arranged vertically and vertically corresponding to the limit section 30.

[0041] Generally, in standard individuals, when the maxilla and mandible close, the upper and lower anterior teeth lie on the same occlusal plane. However, for some patients, the upper and lower anterior teeth are not on the same occlusal plane in their habitual occlusal position, such as in cases of underbite. Considering such situations, a marking area is also provided on the side of the insertion end A near the occlusal portion 10 at the 0 mark, so that the measuring device can be applied to a wider range of people with different oral conditions. The scale values ​​on the first marking area or the second marking area are based on the 0 mark as a reference, and their scale values ​​represent the distance between the corresponding scale and the 0 mark. To obtain more accurate measurement results, the 0 mark corresponds to the side wall of the limiting part 30 near the insertion end A of the occlusal portion 10.

[0042] Optionally, the scale markings are arranged in a rectangular shape, with a length of 12-40 mm and a width of 5-20 mm; preferably, the rectangle is 24 mm long and 10 mm wide, with the 0 mark extending 12 mm into the first marking area and the second marking area respectively.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the biting portion 10 is arc-shaped, and the biting portion 10 has a first arc-shaped edge 11 and a second arc-shaped edge 12. The distance between the first arc-shaped edge 11 and the second arc-shaped edge 12 is 10 to 25 mm; the central angle of the biting portion 10 is 55° to 65°.

[0044] The occlusal portion 10 ensures occlusal stability while minimizing interference from mandibular protrusion. During measurement, the occlusal portion 10 is placed between the upper and lower jaws; therefore, its shape is related to the oral anatomy. The shape of the occlusal portion 10 should resemble the shape of the dental arch; hence, it is designed as an arc-shaped plate structure. To adapt to the oral structure, the distance between the two arc-shaped edges of the occlusal portion 10 is set to 10–25 mm, the length of the occlusal portion 10 in the arc-curving direction is set to 30–60 mm, and the plate thickness of the occlusal portion 10 is ≥1 mm. The central angle of the arc-shaped edges of the occlusal portion 10 is 55°–65°. Preferably, the distance between the two arc-shaped edges is 20 mm, the length of the occlusal portion 10 in the arc-curving direction is 40 mm, the plate thickness of the occlusal portion 10 is 1 mm, and the central angle of the arc-shaped edges of the occlusal portion 10 is 60°.

[0045] In some embodiments of this application, the limiting part 30 is configured as a cuboid with a length of 10-30 mm, a width of 1-5 mm, and a height of 5-15 mm. The limiting part 30 is used to fix the relative positional relationship between the labial side of the upper anterior teeth and the measuring device. The limiting part 30 is disposed on the upper surface of the occlusal part 10, and the distance between the side wall of the limiting part 30 near the insertion end A and the edge of the insertion end A of the occlusal part 10 is 3-10 mm.

[0046] The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to the embodiments disclosed in this application can test the minimum extension amount corresponding to the minimum mandibular protrusion position. It has a simple structure, is easy to implement, and has good medical application value.

[0047] This application also provides a method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion, which measures the minimum protrusion of the temporomandibular joint disc based on the aforementioned mandibular protrusion measuring device. Please refer to [link to previous document]. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ,include:

[0048] Step S1: Place the mandibular protrusion measurement device in the patient's first occlusal position, which is the patient's habitual occlusal position.

[0049] Step S2: Obtain the first scale value based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device. The first scale is the scale value corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the first occlusal position.

[0050] When the patient is in the habitual occlusal position, the lower anterior teeth leave bite marks at the scale markings of the occlusal region 10, and the scale markings corresponding to the bite marks are the first scale values.

[0051] Specifically, when the measuring device is placed in the patient's first occlusal position, the limiting part 30 can be placed against the patient's maxillary central incisor (upper anterior tooth) so that the midline of the limiting part 30 is aligned with the midline of the two central incisors. In this way, the measuring device is located in the center of the maxillary occlusion, and the scale marking area is located directly in front of the mandibular anterior teeth, which is beneficial to obtaining accurate measurement values.

[0052] Next, guide the patient to practice mandibular protrusion. After the patient has mastered the protrusion movement, the formal test will begin. The practice will further improve the accuracy of the measurement and prevent the patient from mandibular deviation during the mandibular protrusion process, which would lead to inaccurate measurement values.

[0053] Step S3: Determine the second occlusal position based on ultrasound imaging. The second occlusal position is the occlusal position of the mandible when it is repositioned between the articular disc and the condyle.

[0054] Step S4: Obtain the second scale value based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device. The second scale value is the scale value corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the second occlusal position.

[0055] The patient's mandible moves along the direction set in the scale marking area. When it moves to the repositioned position of the articular disc, the ultrasound imaging device scans the corresponding sonogram, thus determining the minimum extension position of the mandible. At this time, the lower anterior teeth leave bite marks at the scale marking area of ​​the occlusal part 10, and the scale corresponding to the bite marks is the second scale value.

[0056] Specifically, to obtain better ultrasound scan images, have the patient turn their head 10–20°, and place the ultrasound probe horizontally in front of the patient's tragus, that is, with the axis of the ultrasound probe parallel to the zygomatic arch. Scan vertically within a range of 3–5 mm until the sonogram clearly shows the echoes and positional relationship of the articular disc and condyle. At the same time, the ultrasound probe should be close to the skin but without applying pressure to the temporomandibular joint.

[0057] To obtain optimal measurement values, the mandibular central incisors (lower front teeth) are slowly protruded under the guidance of toothed strip 31, ensuring symmetrical and unbiased mandibular movement on both sides. Each movement involves moving one toothed strip 31 forward, with a pause of approximately 3 seconds between each movement. The protrusion movement stops the instant the articular disc springs back on the sonogram, and the anterior mandibular position, i.e., the "minimum mandibular protrusion position," is recorded, along with the corresponding occlusal scale value.

[0058] Step S5: Obtain the minimum mandibular protrusion based on the first and second scale values. The interval between the first and second scale values ​​is the minimum mandibular protrusion. The interval is determined by the distance between the corresponding toothed bars 31.

[0059] In related technologies, clinical magnetic array imaging (MRI) can only examine the relative position of the articular disc and condyle at a specific location in the mandible, rather than describing the relative position of joint elements during movement. Furthermore, it is expensive, time-consuming, and difficult to follow up, making it unsuitable for patients with metallic objects in the head and neck or claustrophobia, and thus difficult to use as the first-line method for screening and diagnosing TMD. In the embodiments of this application, different structures in the temporomandibular joint reflect different sound waves during ultrasound examination, allowing the patient to obtain static and dynamic ultrasound images in both closed and open mouth positions, respectively. The ultrasound imaging technology, combined with the aforementioned mandibular protrusion measurement device, ensures treatment effectiveness while minimizing discomfort caused by changes in jaw position. Compared to current clinical methods relying on subjective judgment by doctors and patients, it has higher reliability and validity, and can sensitively capture and record subtle articular disc movements that are difficult to detect using clinical methods. Moreover, the ultrasound imaging technology in the method of this invention can obtain image information of the joint in a dynamic state, eliminating the need for multiple long-term examinations and adjustments, and greatly reducing the burden on patients.

[0060] Furthermore, the second engagement position in step S3 can be determined through the following steps:

[0061] 1) The patient's mandible extends forward along the direction set by the scale markings; in order to better capture the repositioning position of the articular disc-condyle, the patient's mandible extends forward intermittently, moving forward one scale each time, and pausing for 2 to 3 seconds each time.

[0062] 2) The ultrasound probe scans the patient's temporomandibular joint in real time and obtains sonographic images of the relative position between the articular disc and the condyle.

[0063] 3) Obtain the first sonogram of the articular disc and condyle during reduction based on the sonogram; it can be understood that the first sonogram is the sonogram of the intermediate echo zone between the anterior part of the lateral condyle bone and the temporal bone articular tubercle moving towards the posterior part of the condyle.

[0064] 4) Determine the second occlusal position based on the first sonogram, and combine the second occlusal position with the first occlusal position to obtain the minimum mandibular protrusion.

[0065] The method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion according to the embodiments disclosed in this application can simply and effectively measure the minimum mandibular protrusion at the optimal treatment position corresponding to the temporomandibular joint disc-condyle. It is easy to implement and inexpensive.

[0066] Examples of embodiments listed in this application are as follows:

[0067] Example 1:

[0068] The measurement method for the minimum mandibular protrusion in this application embodiment is applied to the measurement of the "minimum mandibular protrusion" of unilateral disc anterior displacement. Specifically, unilateral disc anterior displacement is defined as follows: in the closed position, the posterior band of the unilateral articular disc is located anterior to the transverse crest of the mandibular condyle. The articular disc on the healthy side is in a normal position, with the middle band of the articular disc located above the transverse crest of the mandibular condyle, and the posterior band of the articular disc located posterior to the mandibular condyle.

[0069] Specifically, the following steps are included:

[0070] Step S1:

[0071] The doctor holds the handle and places the mandibular protrusion measuring device in the patient's mouth, with the stop positioned on the labial side of the maxillary central incisors, aligning the midline of the stop with the adjacent joint between the two maxillary central incisors.

[0072] The patient habitually bites their mandibular central incisors into the marked area;

[0073] Guide patients to learn mandibular protrusion exercises until they master the protrusion technique.

[0074] Step 2:

[0075] Have the patient turn their head 10-20° toward the healthy side, select a linear array ultrasound probe and place the ultrasound probe on the patient's tragus, with the long axis of the ultrasound probe parallel to the zygomatic arch.

[0076] Adjust its frequency to 9-16MHz and set it to musculoskeletal ultrasound mode;

[0077] The ultrasound probe is adjusted starting from this position, scanning up and down within a range of 3-5mm until the echoes of the condyle, articular disc, and joint capsule are clearly presented in the sonogram.

[0078] Step 3:

[0079] Instruct the patient to bite down in their habitual occlusal position and record the first scale value on the measuring device;

[0080] Instruct the patient to start protruding from their habitual biting position. When the doctor observes that the moderate echogenic area between the anterior part of the lateral condyle bone and the temporal joint tubercle in the sonogram moves towards the posterior part of the condyle, instruct the patient to stop the protrusion movement and maintain the current mandibular position, i.e., the "minimum mandibular protrusion position".

[0081] The patient's mandible leaves a second scale value at the "minimum mandibular protrusion position";

[0082] The minimum forward protrusion of the mandible is calculated using the first and second scale values.

[0083] Example 2

[0084] The measurement method of the minimum mandibular protrusion in the embodiments of this application is applied to the measurement of the "minimum mandibular protrusion position" of bilateral disc anterior displacement. Bilateral disc anterior displacement is specifically defined as follows: in the closed position, the posterior band of both articular discs is located in front of the top of the transverse ridge of the mandibular condyle.

[0085] Specifically, the following steps are included:

[0086] Step S1:

[0087] The doctor holds the handle and places the mandibular protrusion measuring device in the patient's mouth, with the stop positioned on the labial side of the maxillary central incisors, aligning the midline of the stop with the adjacent joint between the two maxillary central incisors.

[0088] The patient habitually bites their mandibular central incisors into the marked area;

[0089] Guide patients to learn mandibular protrusion exercises until they master the protrusion technique.

[0090] Step 2:

[0091] Have the patient turn their head 10-20° to the left, select a linear array ultrasound probe and place the ultrasound probe on the patient's right tragus, with the long axis of the ultrasound probe parallel to the zygomatic arch.

[0092] Adjust its frequency to 9-16MHz and set it to musculoskeletal ultrasound mode;

[0093] The ultrasound probe is adjusted starting from this position, scanning up and down within a range of 3-5mm until the echoes of the condyle, articular disc, and joint capsule are clearly presented in the sonogram.

[0094] Step 3:

[0095] Instruct the patient to bite down in their habitual occlusal position and record the first scale value on the measuring device;

[0096] Instruct the patient to start protruding from their habitual biting position. When the doctor observes that the moderate echogenic area between the anterior part of the lateral condyle bone and the temporal joint tubercle in the sonogram moves towards the posterior part of the condyle, instruct the patient to stop the protrusion movement and maintain the current jaw position, i.e., the right "minimum mandibular protrusion position".

[0097] The patient's mandible leaves a second scale value at the right "minimum mandibular protrusion position".

[0098] Have the patient turn their head 10-20° to the right and place the ultrasound probe on the patient's left tragus.

[0099] Instruct the patient to start protruding from their habitual biting position. When the doctor observes that the moderate echogenic area between the anterior part of the lateral condyle bone and the temporal joint tubercle in the sonogram moves towards the posterior part of the condyle, instruct the patient to stop the protruding movement and maintain the current jaw position, i.e., the left "minimum mandibular protrusion position".

[0100] The patient's mandible leaves a third scale value at the left "minimum mandibular protrusion position".

[0101] Compare the distance between the second and first scale values, and the distance between the third and first scale values, and take the larger of the two values ​​as the minimum mandibular protrusion value.

[0102] It should be noted that the scope of the methods and apparatus in the embodiments of this application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, but may also include performing functions in a substantially simultaneous manner or in the reverse order, depending on the functions involved. For example, the described methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. In addition, features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0103] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device for measuring mandibular protrusion, characterized in that, It includes a handle portion (20), a biting portion (10), and a limiting portion (30), wherein the handle portion (20) is connected to the biting portion (10); The limiting part (30) is disposed between the handle part (20) and the occlusal part (10), and the limiting part (30) is erected on the upper end of the occlusal part (10). The limiting part (30) and the upper surface of the occlusal part (10) are clamped to form a space for placing the upper anterior teeth. The lower end of the biting part (10) is provided with a scale marking part, which is arranged along a first direction, the first direction being from the end of the biting part (10) away from the handle part (20) to the limiting part (30); The scale marking section has a plurality of toothed strips (31), which are arranged parallel to each other along the first direction.

2. The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spacing between adjacent toothed strips (31) is 0.5mm to 1.5mm.

3. The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cross-section of the toothed strip (31) is an equilateral triangle, and the side length of the cross-section of the toothed strip (31) is 0.5~2mm.

4. The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The scale marking section has a first marking area and a second marking area arranged opposite to each other. The first marking area and the second marking area are connected by a 0 mark, and the 0 mark is arranged vertically and vertically corresponding to the limiting part (30).

5. The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The occlusal portion (10) is arc-shaped, and the occlusal portion (10) has a first arc-shaped edge (11) and a second arc-shaped edge (12); the distance between the first arc-shaped edge (11) and the second arc-shaped edge (12) is 10~25mm, the length of the occlusal portion (10) in the arc bending direction is 30~60mm, the thickness of the occlusal portion (10) is greater than 1mm, and the central angle of the occlusal portion (10) is 55°~65°.

6. The mandibular protrusion measurement device according to claim 1, characterized in that the limiting part (30) is a cuboid with a length of 10~30mm, a width of 1~5mm, and a height of 5~15mm.

7. A method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion, characterized in that, Measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion required for temporomandibular joint disc repositioning using the mandibular protrusion measuring device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, including: The mandibular protrusion measurement device is placed in the patient's first occlusal position, which is the patient's habitual occlusal position. The first scale value is obtained based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device. The first scale value is the scale value of the scale marking part corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the first occlusal position. The second occlusal position is determined based on ultrasound imaging. The second occlusal position is the occlusal position of the mandible when it is repositioned between the articular disc and the condyle. The second scale value is obtained based on the mandibular protrusion measurement device. The second scale value is the scale value of the scale marking part corresponding to the mandibular central incisor when the mandible is in the second occlusal position. The minimum mandibular protrusion is obtained based on the first and second scale values.

8. The method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion according to claim 7, characterized in that, The determination of the second occlusal position based on ultrasound imaging includes: The patient's mandible extends forward along the direction indicated by the scale markings; The ultrasound probe scans the patient's temporomandibular joint in real time and obtains sonographic images of the relative position between the articular disc and the condyle. The first sonogram of the articular disc and condyle during reduction is obtained based on the sonogram; The second occlusal position is determined based on the first sonogram.

9. The method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first sonogram is a sonogram of the medium echo zone between the anterior part of the lateral condyle bone and the temporal articular tubercle as it moves toward the posterior part of the condyle.

10. The method for measuring the minimum mandibular protrusion according to claim 8, characterized in that, The patient's mandible extends forward along the direction of the scale markings, including: the patient's mandible extends forward intermittently, moving forward one scale mark at a time, and pausing for 2-3 seconds each time.

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