Orthodontics and temporomandibular joint internal derangement

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Orthodontics

Background:

• Internal derangement of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) is a common condition.
• Understanding its prevalence in different populations is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
• The role of orthodontic treatment history in TMJ derangement requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the prevalence of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) in asymptomatic volunteers versus symptomatic patients.
• To correlate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings with clinical signs and symptoms.
• To assess the association between prior orthodontic treatment and TMJ internal derangement.

Main Methods:

• Bilateral TMJ MRI scans were performed on 76 asymptomatic volunteers and 102 symptomatic patients.
• MRI findings for disk displacement were evaluated using established criteria by blinded reviewers.
• Data were compared with clinical assessments and patient histories, including orthodontic treatment.

Main Results:

• A significantly higher prevalence of TMJ disk displacement was observed in symptomatic patients (77%) compared to asymptomatic volunteers (33%) (p < 0.001).
• No statistically significant association was found between a history of prior orthodontic treatment and the presence of internal derangement of the TMJ.

Conclusions:

• Symptomatic individuals exhibit a substantially higher prevalence of internal derangement of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) compared to asymptomatic individuals.
• Current evidence does not support a link between prior orthodontic treatment and internal derangement of the TMJ.