[Electromagnetic articulography (EMA) studies on orofacial movement functions].

For judging the influence of orofacial motor functions on the development and function of the dentoalveolar system objective methods are required. Electromagnetic Articulography (EMA) is a new device based on an inductive measuring principle. Using miniature receiver coils placed on the tongue dorsum or the velar margin, movements of multiple points on orofacial structures in the midsagittal plane can be recorded. The application of EMA on the examination of tongue and velum motor activity during speech production and deglutition is demonstrated. First results of sagittal tongue movement during swallowing in normals are reported. Examples from current studies, using EMA in the field of tongue dysfunction, orofacial motor coordination and velopharyngeal closure are demonstrated and the possible perspective of EMA-application is discussed for dental research and functional treatment of CLP-patient.