Comparison of condylar height symmetry and temporomandibular disorder symptom in the subject with complete teeth: a preliminary study

Abstract

The proper diagnosis of the dentocraniofacial symmetry is a major step in modern orthodontics. Mandibular condyle is the most likely region of temporomandibular joint with the most advanced post-pubertal growth rate. The asymmetrical function of the mandibular that has developed differently, is a naturally occurring phenomenon. However, the dysfunction of temporomandibular joint that related to condyle may lead to some symptoms that can become chronic and difficult to manage. This study aims to compare condylar height symmetry and temporomandibular disorder symptom in the subject with complete teeth. This is a descriptive analytic study with cross sectional approach of the subject with complete erupted teeth until the second molar, except the third molar. Early detection of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms using Temporomandibular Disorder Diagnostic Indexes (TMD-DI). Based on Habets’ method, the difference of 6% between right and left condylar height was categorized as asymmetry. This study found that 17.7% (n = 12) of patients with symmetry height condylar and 38.2% (n = 26) showed asymmetry had TMD symptom. On the other hand, 39.7% (n = 27) of patients with symmetry height condylar and 4.4% (n = 3) with asymmetry had no TMD symptoms. There was a significant difference (p = 0.00). In conclusion; condylar height symmetry should be considered in the occurrence of TMD symptoms in order to understand the development of mandibular asymmetry and multifactorial of TMD.