Orofacial myographic measurement probe

摘要

An orofacial measurement probe for measuring muscle forces within the oral cavity. The probe includes a bite member sized for insertion into the oral cavity and a pressure-sensitive transducer disposed in transducer housing. The bite member is formed with a rigid upper portion, a rigid lower portion and an elastomeric member holding the upper and power portions in spaced-apart relationship to one another. The upper and lower portions are formed and arranged so that together with the elastomeric member they define a hydraulic cavity, which carries a hydraulic fluid. At least one of the upper and lower portions is formed to provide a bite surface sized for engagement by one or more of the patient's teeth. The transducer housing is separate from the bite member and arranged to be external to the oral cavity when the bite member is inserted into the oral cavity. The pressure-sensitive transducer disposed within the transducer housing is responsive to pressures sufficiently great that it can respond to the maximum bite force of a strong adult. The probe includes a connecting member connecting the hydraulic cavity with the transducer housing for maintaining the hydraulic cavity in hydraulic communication with the transducer. A patient biting down on the bite surface imparts a bite force to the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic cavity that is transmitted to the transducer whereupon the transducer provides an electrical signal indicative of the bite force.