Fractal and Morphometric Analysis of Mandibular Bone in Individuals With Bruxism: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Bruxism, characterized by teeth grinding and clenching, can impact mandibular bone structure.
• Assessing these bone modifications non-invasively is crucial for diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate cortical and trabecular bone changes in the mandible of individuals with and without bruxism.
• To utilize panoramic radiography-based fractal analysis and morphometric assessments for this evaluation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed panoramic radiographs of individuals aged 18-50 with and without bruxism.
• Fractal dimension (FD) was calculated using the box-counting method in the condyle, molar, and angulus regions.
• Morphometric indices, including antegonial index (AI) and antegonial notch depth (AND), were measured.

Main Results:

• Lower condylar FD values (1.29 ± 0.05) were observed in the bruxist group compared to controls (1.31 ± 0.04), indicating microstructural degradation.
• The antegonial index (AI) was significantly lower in bruxists (2.19 ± 0.45 cm) than in controls (2.40 ± 0.41 cm).
• Severe bruxism (G3) correlated with the lowest condylar FD values, suggesting advanced structural compromise.

Conclusions:

• Bruxism, particularly severe forms, can lead to microarchitectural alterations in mandibular trabecular bone, especially in the condylar region.
• Fractal analysis and morphometric indices from panoramic radiographs offer supplementary, non-invasive methods for detecting bruxism-related bone changes.