Abstract
SDM which allows measurement of the thickness of masticatory mucosa easily by ultrasonic waves has been recently introduced commercially. SDM may by a useful diagnostic instrument at dental clinics, if it can be actually applied to the measurement of the thickness of masticatory mucosa. In this study, we examined whether SDM can be used for this purpose or not.
Close correlation was found between the measurement data obtained with SDM and those by the puncturing method. The coefficient of variation was 5.2% on average in measurement at the same part of the mucosa ten times with SDM. By ANOVA, there were no statistically significant differences in the data obtained on different measurement days. The above result may indicate that measurement with SDM is reliable.
The Thickness of masticatory mucosa in edentulous mouth measured with SDM almost agreed with the data reported by other investigator. The thickness of flabby gum measured with SDM was greater than that of normal masticatory mucosa. The masticatory mucosa of a patient in whom pain persisted in spite of frequent adjustment of the denture was thinner, compared to normal masticatory mucosa. Thus, the data obtained with SDM and the clinical condition were well related.
These results support the clinical applicability of SDM to the measurement of masticatory mucosal thickness.
