Comparative analysis of jaw morphology and temporomandibular disorders: A three-dimension imaging study

Cranio. 2020 May;38(3):158-167. doi: 10.1080/08869634.2018.1507094. Epub 2018 Aug 14.

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the association between volumetric measurements of craniofacial morphology and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Methods: Computerized tomography (CT) scans of 20 individuals aged 18 to 40 with (TMD group) or without TMJ pain (control group) were gathered based on a case-control design. Three-dimensional reconstructions were performed to evaluate the gonial angle, condylar volume, and the distance between the posterior edge of the condyle and the sigmoid notch. Results: The gonial angle was significantly larger (8% difference) in the TMD group with respect to controls, whereas the condylar volume was significantly higher in the control group (15.2% difference). No significant difference was found in the linear distance. Conclusion: There is an association between the presence of TMJ pain and some features of craniofacial morphology. Individuals with TMJ pain have a lower condylar volume and a tendency towards hyperdivergent growth.

Keywords: 3D imaging study; Temporomandibular disorders; facial morphology.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Mandible
  • Mandibular Condyle
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders*
  • Temporomandibular Joint*
  • Young Adult