Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study of Mandibular Condylar Morphology

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The morphology of the mandibular condyle is crucial for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function.
• Understanding variations in condyle shape can aid in diagnosing TMJ disorders.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers detailed imaging of craniofacial structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate mandibular condyle morphology using CBCT in a South-Eastern Anatolian population.
• To analyze condyle shape variations based on age, gender, and edentulism.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1820 joints from 910 subjects (18-86 years) using CBCT coronal sections.
• Classification of condyle morphology into convex, round, flat, and angled shapes.
• Assessment of morphology in relation to age, gender, and edentulism.

Main Results:

• The most common condyle morphologies were convex (40.5%) and angled (34.3%).
• Condyle shape demonstrated statistically significant associations with age, gender, and edentulism (P <0.05).

Conclusions:

• Mandibular condyle morphology is significantly influenced by age, gender, and the presence of edentulism.
• CBCT is a valuable tool for detecting condyle alterations, potentially enabling early diagnosis of TMJ disorders.