Chewing pattern analysis in TMD patients with and without internal derangement: Part II

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Neurology

Background:

• Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) are common conditions affecting the jaw joint.
• Internal derangement (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a specific subtype of TMD.
• Understanding chewing movement mechanics is crucial for diagnosing and treating TMD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and compare the chewing movement velocity in TMD patients with and without internal derangement (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• To identify distinct chewing velocity patterns associated with different TMD classifications.

Main Methods:

• Velocity analysis of chewing movements was performed.
• Subjects included 103 TMD patients with unilateral internal derangement (ID group), 94 TMD patients without internal derangement (NID group), and 10 healthy controls.
• Statistical comparisons were made between the groups.

Main Results:

• The ID group displayed significantly reduced maximum opening velocity and a narrower range of velocity compared to NID and normal groups.
• A frequent opening velocity pattern with mid-opening deceleration was observed in the ID group.
• The NID group showed a higher prevalence of opening velocity patterns lacking a distinct peak velocity.

Conclusions:

• Chewing movement velocity analysis can differentiate between TMD patients with and without internal derangement.
• Distinct alterations in chewing kinematics are associated with the presence and absence of TMJ internal derangement.
• These findings may aid in the clinical assessment and understanding of TMD pathophysiology.