The Role of Supraerupted and Distoverted Maxillary Third Molars in the Treatment of Temporomandibular Disorder: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a multifactorial disease that is classified into muscular and joint disorders. The etiology of TMD is unknown but it is related to various factors such as bruxism, uncorrected high dental restorations, and occlusal prematurities. This study aims to provide treatment modalities for TMD patients with supraerupted and/or distoverted maxillary third molars that have premature contact with the opposing arch. Methods A total of 430 subjects diagnosed with TMD were included in the study and randomized into study and control groups based on their treatment needs. A detailed case history was taken, and findings of intra and extra oral examination were recorded along with other investigations such as study model analysis, orthopantomogram (OPG), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and MRI. The multiphase treatment included counseling in phase I, extraction in phase II (only for the study group), and oral appliance in the third phase. The final phase involved the restoration of edentulous areas or reduced vertical dimension. Results Extraction of supraerupted and/or distoverted maxillary third molars in the study group during phase II showed a 96% reduction in TMD when compared to the control group who did not undergo extraction. Conclusion TMD is a repetitive motion disorder, and the success of treatment relies on the elimination of causative factors, the type of appliance used, and the establishment of ideal occlusion. This study suggests that the extraction of supraerupted and/or distoverted maxillary third molars is a prerequisite for treating TMD patients.