An extended replication study of dental factors associated with temporomandibular joint sounds

A previous study demonstrated associations between dental factors and joint sounds. To support these findings, this replication study was carried out in another sample of nonpatients. It was found that temporomandibular joint sounds are common in nonpatients. Their prevalence in young adults exceeded the prevalence in adults. The small size of the control group rendered the results of multivariate analysis statistically inconclusive. Tentative interpretation suggests that attrition of the anterior teeth or generally in the dentition, unilateral non-working-side interferences, morphologic occlusion, and premolar contacts are related to the presence of sounds. Temporomandibular joint sounds in nonpatients are considered to be normal and not a manifestation of subclinical problems. Definite answers on the causality of temporomandibular joint sounds will have to be based on prospective longitudinal studies.