Objective: To compare the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) position and shape between skeletal Class I subjects with different degrees of deep overbite or open bite and unaffected peers.
Methods: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 90 participants, equally divided into deep bite, open bite, and control groups (DBG, OBG, and CG, respectively), were analyzed. The DBG and OBG were further subdivided into three subgroups based on the severity. Linear and angular measurements were used to determine the positional and morphological characteristics of the TMJ.
Results: DBG showed significantly larger superior joint space, anterior inclination of the condyle, and articular eminence inclination than CG and OBG. The severity of deep bite and open bite significantly influenced the TMJ position and morphology.
Conclusion: In severe deep overbite and open bite cases, there were considerable alterations in TMJ components, most likely as a result of functional demands.
Keywords: Temporomandibular joint; condylar path; deep overbite; open bite.