Systemic ligament hypermobility in temporomandibular disorders

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Rheumatology
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are complex conditions.
• Systemic ligament hypermobility, such as benign hypermobile joint syndrome (BHJS), and masticatory parafunctions like clenching and bruxism are potential contributing factors to TMD.
• The interplay between these factors requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between benign hypermobile joint syndrome (BHJS) and masticatory parafunction in individuals with and without intracapsular TMD.
• To determine if the simultaneous presence of BHJS and masticatory parafunction is significantly related to intracapsular TMD symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study was conducted on female participants with (n=110) and without (n=112) intracapsular TMD.
• Benign hypermobile joint syndrome (BHJS) was identified using the modified Carter-Wilkinson systemic ligament hypermobility scale (ligament mobility index > 4).
• Masticatory parafunction (clenching/bruxism) was evaluated in both groups.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between benign hypermobile joint syndrome (BHJS) and masticatory parafunction when occurring together in females.
• This combined presence was significantly linked to symptoms of intracapsular TMD (P<0.001).
• No significant difference in age or Angle's classification was noted between groups.

Conclusions:

• The findings suggest that benign hypermobile joint syndrome (BHJS) and masticatory parafunction are significant risk factors for intracapsular TMD in females.
• Clinicians should consider evaluating for systemic ligament hypermobility and parafunctional habits in female patients presenting with TMD.
• Further research may explore therapeutic interventions targeting these associated factors.