Exploring the Impact of Orthodontic Treatment on Temporomandibular Joint Health

Abstract

Background: Currently, one of the most prevalent oral abnormalities is malocclusion. There is a rising percentage of patients who are willing to undertake orthodontic procedures. Aim: To evaluate the impact of orthodontic treatment on the morphology of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in patients with malocclusion associated with TMJ abnormality such as skeletal class II deep bite malocclusion using CBCT. Methods and Materials: In total, 80 patients who underwent orthodontic treatment for skeletal class II deep bite malocclusion over a duration of 3 years were included. Parameters of the morphology of the condyle and glenoid fossa on CBCT scan both before and after orthodontic therapy were measured. Results: The maximum cross-sectional area of the condyle decreased from 99.84 ± 18.89 mm2 to 81.32 ± 16.80 mm2 after orthodontic treatment. The anterior condyle oblique inclination increased from 34.14 ± 2.98° to 36.52 ± 3.41° after orthodontic therapy. The articular eminence to the FH plane angle increased from 29.65 ± 2.53° to 33.29 ± 4.18° after orthodontic therapy. Conclusion: Orthodontic treatment is significantly correlated with improvement in TMJ health in patients of malocclusion.

Keywords

• malocclusion
• orthodontic treatment
• tmj