Analysis of the relationship between treatment modalities and temporomandibular joint space parameters in non-traumatic bifid mandibular condyle patients

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between treatment modalities in non-traumatic bifid mandibular condyle (BMC) cases and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) radiomorphometric parameters, including the width and location of the narrowest joint space. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 42 patients who presented to a tertiary healthcare institution were included in the study. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of non-traumatic BMC cases were retrospectively evaluated, and 84 temporomandibular joints were analyzed to determine the width and location of the narrowest joint space. Clinical symptoms and treatment modalities were obtained from patient records and statistically analyzed in relation to radiological findings. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 40.2 ± 17.9 years, and 36 patients were symptomatic. A statistically significant association was observed between treatment modality and the presence of clinical symptoms (p = 0.021). Follow-up was recommended for 83.3% of asymptomatic patients, whereas only 8.3% of symptomatic patients were managed with observation alone. Among symptomatic patients, 63.8% received occlusal splint therapy, 16.6% underwent combined splint and surgical treatment, and 11.1% received prosthetic or other interventions. No significant association was found between treatment modality and BMC type (p = 0.463), coronal joint space width (p = 0.470), or sagittal joint space width (p = 0.344). CONCLUSION: In non-traumatic BMC cases, treatment selection is primarily associated with clinical symptoms rather than CBCT-derived joint space parameters. Radiological joint space characteristics did not demonstrate a significant influence on treatment decisions; however, bilateral CBCT evaluation remains important for comprehensive assessment of TMJ morphology. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.