Radiological Associations between Posterior Edentulism and Condylar Bony Changes: A Retrospective Study

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the relationship between posterior edentulism and condylar bone changes in patients aged 35-60 years. The CBCT images of 259 patients, including 131 posterior edentulous and 128 posterior dentulous patients, were analyzed to identify the types of condylar bone changes. The frequency of flattening, sclerosis, erosion, and reduced joint space was found to be higher in posterior edentulous patients. Regression analysis revealed that combined premolar and molar loss and being female were significant predictors of condylar erosion (p = 0.006; OR: 3.264; 95% CI: 1.401 - 7.603, p=0.031; OR: 2.652; %95 CI: 1.095 - 6.424). The study provides support for the domino effect phenomenon in temporomandibular joint pathology, indicating that posterior edentulism can have a significant impact on the occurrence of erosive condylar changes. The findings suggest that prosthetic and temporomandibular joint treatment approaches should consider the association between posterior edentulism and condylar bone changes, particularly in female patients with combined premolar and molar loss. Therefore, close attention should be paid to the management of these patients to minimize the risk of temporomandibular joint pathology.