The relationship between unilateral mandibular angle fracture and temporomandibular joint function

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Orthodontics
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Unilateral mandibular fractures (MF) can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction.
• Occlusal disturbances are common sequelae of MF.
• The role of occlusal correction in TMJ recovery after MF is not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the relationship between occlusal correction and TMJ function during MF treatment.
• To evaluate the impact of early and consequent occlusal analysis and correction on patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Comparative study involving patients with unilateral MF (with and without occlusal correction) and a control group.
• Assessment of patient complaints, mandibular movements (using ZEBRIS ultrasound), and occlusal parameters (using T-Scan).
• Evaluation conducted during the healing period.

Main Results:

• Occlusal correction group showed statistically significant reduction in patient complaints, mandibular movement alterations, and occlusal disturbances compared to the non-correction group.
• Minor exceptions included joint noises and lateral track to the injured side.
• Despite improvements, TMJ function parameters remained worse than the control group.

Conclusions:

• Early and subsequent occlusal analysis and correction positively influence TMJ function during MF treatment.
• Timely occlusal correction is crucial for improving and accelerating rehabilitation after MF.
• Occlusal correction is an indispensable component of MF treatment for optimal functional recovery.