2. MFSP™ – Comprehensive Diagnostics and Analysis
From Symptom to Cause
When the clinical case requires it, we proceed to MFSP™ – Medical Functional Stability Protocol.
MFSP™ diagnostics provides a comprehensive assessment of the patient rather than evaluating an isolated symptom or tooth. We assess not only an individual tooth or symptom, but also the relationships between oral health, biological structures, function and occlusion.
Depending on the individual case, diagnostics may include clinical, imaging and functional examinations, as well as other specialized methods. The assessment may include the clinical and dental condition, occlusion and function, temporomandibular joints, muscular balance, postural relationships, imaging and digital diagnostics, and individual risk factors.
Functional Assessment: Bite, Muscles and Jaw Joints
Bite and Tooth Contacts
We assess tooth contacts during closing and movements of the lower jaw. We check for premature contacts and occlusal interferences — contacts that may hinder smooth movement.
Lower Jaw Movement
We observe the direction, smoothness and range of movement during opening and closing. We note sideways deviations and whether the jaw returns to the midline. A deviation alone does not establish its cause or a diagnosis.
Chewing Muscles
We assess muscle tenderness and function. When indicated, we use surface electromyography with Teethan to measure and compare the activity of the examined chewing muscles. Results are interpreted alongside the clinical examination.
Tongue, Swallowing and Muscles of the Hyoid Region
We assess tongue position and mobility, its resting posture and its role in swallowing. When indicated, we examine coordination with the muscles of the floor of the mouth and the hyoid region, as well as breathing patterns. Where necessary, assessment involves a speech and language therapist or another appropriate specialist.
This is a separate clinical assessment — the standard Teethan examination does not directly measure these muscles.
Salivation and Saliva Control
We assess complaints of dry mouth, increased salivation or involuntary saliva leakage. These are considered alongside swallowing, tongue position and lip closure. Where necessary, we measure salivary flow and refer for further assessment.
Saliva leakage does not necessarily mean increased saliva production.
Jaw Joints
We check for pain, joint sounds and limitations in movement. Appropriate imaging is requested when necessary.
Facial Symmetry, Head Position and Postural Adaptations
We document facial symmetry and head and neck position. When indicated, we assess postural asymmetries and possible adaptations, considering them alongside other clinical findings. An appropriate specialist is involved where necessary.
Postural findings are considered alongside the assessment of the bite, jaw movements and muscle function to determine their relevance to the individual treatment plan.
The collected data are analysed as components of a unified diagnostic system. The aim is to identify possible root causes and interconnections and to create the foundation for the next step — the individual treatment plan.
