Joint Vibration Analysis in Routine Restorative Dentistry

Amy Morgan
If part of your practice’s vision is to implement the very latest technologies and cutting-edge clinical skills to enhance your patients’ experience, Joint Vibrational Analysis (JVA) (BioRESEARCH) can be a very significant addition. Using JVA as a tool for diagnosing and educating your patients in a holistic approach to their overall oral health and well-being by addressing temporomandibular Joint diesease prior to treatment is essential.
     The initial investment in the equipment necessary to perform JVA is approximately $10,000. This includes the training needed to incorporate it into the practice. In our interviews with various practitioners, all have reported increased case acceptance, increased fabrication of appliances, decreased restorative remakes, and an increased number of referrals (from both patients and specialists); translating into a significant potential return on investment. The more passive or qualitative returns include more predictability in results, becoming another tool to exceed patients’ expectations and confidence in the treatment results.
      The most impacted team members are the chairside assistants (and possibly the hygienists, depending on its incorporation into the periodic examination schedule). Team members are trained in-office. This helps to promote immediate comfort in utilizing this new tool in the “real” environment. The learning curve for the team can be fairly rapid. We have reports that clinical team members can learn the mechanics of the instrument within 10 minutes! These new skills are very empowering and can enhance each clinical job description, thus providing opportunities for improvement and growth.
      Let’s not forget the educational impact on the dentist as well! An extensive 3-day course provides the initial training for the doctor in interpretation of the data. Continued training online and or additional off-site provide opportunities for the doctor and team to finish certification on JVA.
      The impact on the practice is usually minimal regarding scheduling. Simply incorporating it into your new patient evaluation as an additional screening tool is a common approach. Patients of record can be exposed to JVA during your periodic or status exams. Screening questions about headaches, tension, joint sounds, or pain are asked and patients with positive answers are given the JVA quick test (approximately 3 minutes). Reading and interpretation of this screening either leads to no further action (negative results), or, if positive indicators result, the patient is scheduled for further services. Patients are intrigued by the JVA and feel this technology is yet another sign of a progressive, high-tech, and comprehensive approach to their care. This can definitely create a “buzz” and additional referrals.
      For dentists and team members who are passionate about doing everything possible to improve the health of their patients, JVA is another option to take to improve your processes and procedures.