Evaluation of condyle-disc-fossa relationship in relation to different orthodontic skeletal relations, clinical and radiographic study

Abstract

Objective: In Class I, Class II, and Class III cases, disc and condylar locations, as well as joint spaces were evaluated and compared. The goal of this study was to see how likely the three groups were to develop temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Materials and Methods: Certain inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to select a sample of 90 cases, with 30 cases in each of the three classes (Class I, Class II, and Class III). In the sagittal plane, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to study the location of the articular disc, condyle, and joint spaces using a closed mouth approach. Results: The morphology of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) was altered in both Class II and Class III patients, with the greatest disparity in Class II patients. In Class II patients, an MRI revealed a tendency for anterior disc displacement with condyles positioned more anteriorly. In the Class III patients, the disparity was smaller. Conclusions: Class II patients are more likely to develop TMDs and it is advised to evaluate the TMJ before beginning orthodontic treatment to identify and stop an asymptomatic TMD from progressing to a more severe form.