The relationship between temporomandibular joint sounds and malocclusion

The relationship between temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds and the occlusion was evaluated in a sample of 226 patients before commencement of orthodontic treatment. TMJ sounds were recorded on videotape, using an audiovisual system, for subsequent classification into various categories. The prevalence of joint sounds was 36.3% (N = 82) of which 50% (N = 41) were categorized as reciprocal clicks. The occlusion (static and functional) and skeletal relationships generally did not appear to be significant factors in contributing to TMJ sounds in patients with malocclusions. However, a larger interincisal angle in the sound-present group, and dental wear and increased overbite in the reciprocal-clicking subgroup may be associated factors.