Temporomandibular Joint Function Research Articles

Predictive modelling of freeway space utilising clinical history, normalised muscle activity, dental occlusion, and mandibular movement analysis

This study aimed to predict dental freeway space by examining the clinical history, habits, occlusal parameters, mandibular hard tissue movement, soft tissue motion, muscle activity, and temporomandibular joint function of 66 participants. Data collection involved video-based facial landmark tracking, mandibular electrognathography, surface electromyography of mandibular range of motion, freeway space, chewing tasks, phonetic expressions, joint vibration analysis, and 3D jaw scans of occlusion. This resulted in a dataset of 121 predictor features, with freeway space as the target variable. Six models were trained on synthetic data ranging from 500 to 25,000 observations, with 65 original observations reserved for testing: Linear Regression, Random Forest, CatBoost Regressor, XGBoost Regressor, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MPNN), and TabNet. Explainable AI indicated that key predictors of freeway space included phonetics, resting temporalis muscle activity, mandibular muscle activity during clenching, body weight, mandibular hard tissue lateral displacements, and dental arch parameters. CatBoost excelled with a test error of 0.65 mm using 5000 synthetic data points, while a refined MPNN achieved the best performance with 25,000 synthetic data points and 121 unique predictors, yielding an absolute error of 0.43 mm on the 65 original observations.

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching exercises for treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction in patients with forward head posture: A double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial.

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching exercises have been widely advocated for the management of patients with different musculoskeletal conditions. However, its effect on the treatment of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) in patients with forward head posture (FHP) has not been fully investigated. To investigate the effect of PNF stretching exercises on the treatment of TMD in patients with FHP. A prospective, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial. Twenty-four patients with TMD and FHP aged from 18-40 years were randomly assigned to PNF or control group. The PNF group composed of 12 patients received PNF stretching exercises of masticatory muscles in addition to routine physical therapy treatment (FHP correction exercises and ultrasound for the temporomandibular joint); the control group composed of 12 patients received routine physical therapy treatment only. Interventions were conducted twice a week for six weeks. Craniovertebral angle, pain threshold, pain intensity, temporomandibular joint ROM, and temporomandibular joint function were assessed for all participants before and after the intervention. The outcomes were analyzed using Two-way mixed MANOVA. For further multiple comparisons, post-hoc tests with the Bonferroni correction were performed. There was no significant difference between both groups pre-treatment (p> 0.05). Comparison between groups post-treatment revealed statistically significant differences in all outcome measures (p< 0.05) in favor of the PNF group. Adding PNF stretching exercises of masticatory muscles to routine physical therapy programs is an effective method for management of TMD in patients with FHP more than routine physical therapy programs alone.

Exploring the Complexities of Temporomandibular Joint Function and Dysfunction: A Contemporary Review

This contemporary review delves into the intricate realm of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function and dysfunction, shedding light on its multifaceted nature and offering insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. The TMJ, a vital component of the craniofacial complex, plays a pivotal role in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Understanding its anatomy and physiology is paramount in the treatment and management of TMJ dysfunction. The biomechanics of TMJ function, from the articular disc to the surrounding ligaments and muscles, have been explored comprehensively. A critical aspect of this review revolves around the diverse etiological factors contributing to TMJ dysfunction. Genetic predispositions, parafunctions, occlusal irregularities, and psychological stress are dissected to illuminate the roles of these factors in the development of TMJ disorders. These complexities prompted the need for a robust classification system elucidating the clinical manifestations and diagnostic criteria for various TMJ disorders. Modern diagnostic modalities, including clinical assessment, imaging techniques, and joint aspiration, are scrutinized for their indispensable roles in accurate diagnosis. The comprehensive overview included management strategies, from conservative measures to surgical interventions. In recognizing the pivotal influence of psychosocial factors, this review underscores the importance of patient-centered care and cognitive-behavioral interventions. Furthermore, regenerative therapies, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized medicine are emerging trends in TMJ research. This review provides a contemporary roadmap for comprehending, diagnosing, and managing TMJ-related conditions.

Effect of Different Treatment Modalities for Condylar Fractures in Childhood on Mandibular Symmetry and Temporomandibular Joint Function: A Retrospective Study.

In a retrospective study of the effects of different treatment modalities of condylar fractures in childhood on mandibular symmetry and temporomandibular function, the cases selected for this article were adult patients who had sustained a condylar fracture in childhood. The aim was to investigate the effects of condylar fractures in children on the development and function of the mandible and their specific manifestations after the completion of mandibular development. According to the different treatment modalities, the patients were divided into the conservative treatment group and the open surgical treatment group, and the effects of the 2 treatment modalities on the patients' condylar healing, the difference in growth ability, and the symmetry of the jaws were evaluated. The effects of different treatment modalities of children's condylar fracture on the growth, development, and function of the mandible were investigated using the Ai and Di, the grading of the imaging results, and the 3-dimensional CT fixation measurements from the aspects of both clinical examination and imaging examination. The 2 groups had condylar malalignment and condylar morphology abnormality, and there was one case of joint ankylosis in the surgical treatment group. There was a statistical difference in the evaluation of condylar reconstruction between the 2 groups, and the condylar reconstruction in the surgical treatment group was better than that in the conservative treatment, and there was a statistical difference between the condylar length, condylar width, condylar height, and depth of TMJ fossa between the healthy side and the affected side in the closed treatment group. There was a statistical difference in the height of the mandibular ascending branch between the healthy side and the affected side, and the unilateral condylar fracture was treated conservatively; the difference in the bony chin point deviation between the 2 groups was not statistically significant. In children, after conservative treatment of condylar fracture, the growth of condylar process is poor, and the condylar shape and position are not as good as surgical repositioning, but through the proliferation of temporomandibular joint fossa, it can make up for the insufficient height of condylar process, which has no effect on the symmetry of the mandible, and the surgical treatment can achieve good anatomical repositioning, which has a greater effect on the symmetry of the mandible than the conservative treatment.

A randomized controlled clinical trial of concentrated growth factor combined with sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of concentrated growth factor (CGF) combined with sodium hyaluronate (SH) on temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA).MethodsSixty patients with TMJOA who were diagnosed by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) between March 2020 and March 2023 at the Stomatological Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University were randomly divided into a control group (n = 30) and an experimental group (n = 30). The patients in the experimental group were treated with CGF + SH, and those in the control group were treated with SH only. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score indicating pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area; the Helkimo Clinical Dysfunction Index (Di); and changes in condylar CBCT at the first visit and 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after treatment were recorded. The CBCT data of the patients in the experimental and control groups were collected, and the three-dimensional CBCT image sequences were imported into Mimics Medical 19.0 software in DICOM format for condylar reconstruction.ResultsThe VAS scores at 2 weeks, 3 months and 6 months after treatment were significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the pain in the experimental group was significantly relieved. The Di was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the clinical function of the TMJ improved. After treatment, the CBCT score was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05), and the condylar bone cortex was obviously repaired. Observation of the condylar bone cortex by three-dimensional reconstruction showed the same results as those obtained by CBCT.ConclusionCGF combined with SH is effective in the treatment of TMJOA and can improve muscle pain, TMJ pain, Impaired TMJ function, Impaired range of movement, Pain on movement of the mandible and promote bone repair.The registration number (TRN)ChiCTR2400082712.The date of registrationApril 5, 2024.

Surgical treatment of intracapsular temporomandibular disorders.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pathologies are prevalent, affecting approximately 40% of the worldwide population, with nearly 80% involving intracapsular disorders. Despite this, standardized treatment protocols are lacking. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of conservative and surgical approaches in managing intracapsular TMJ disorders. Eighty-six patients diagnosed with intracapsular TMJ disorders were included in the study, with 40 males and 46 females, averaging 52.4 ± 4.7 years. Patients were recruited from polyclinics in Beijing, China (n = 36), and Kyiv, Ukraine (n = 50). A comprehensive examination protocol was conducted, including assessment of patient complaints, medical history, jaw mobility measurements, TMJ palpation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) screening. The main outcomes of our study revealed significant improvements in patients undergoing surgical intervention for intracapsular TMJ disorders, particularly in cases of disc displacement. Conservative mouth guard/occlusal splint treatment showed limited effectiveness, primarily improving joint effusion and disc displacement. Surgical intervention led to notable enhancements in various TMJ parameters, with significant improvements observed in joint function and pain reduction. Based on these findings, orthodontic rehabilitation was recommended to ensure long-term efficacy, focusing on optimizing occlusion and restoring TMJ function. These results highlight the importance of tailored treatment approaches for managing intracapsular TMJ disorders, emphasizing the role of surgical intervention coupled with comprehensive rehabilitation strategies. Future research should consider demographic factors and explore innovative examination methods, such as optical systems, to enhance understanding and management of intracapsular TMJ disorders.

Examination-Related Stress Leads to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Medical and Dental Students - An Institutional-Based Study

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/strong&gt; Stress-related behaviors such as challenging academic atmosphere and rigorous examinations exert a negative impact on the normal function of temporomandibular joint. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) and their association with examination-related stress among medical (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) and dental (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) students.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods:&lt;/strong&gt; This cross-sectional survey was conducted at Fatima Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan, from June 2022 to November 2022 using the Fonseca&amp;rsquo;s Questionnaire. A total of 198 medical and dental students were included as study participants. They were required to select just 1 response for each of the 10 items mentioned in the adopted but customized and validated questionnaire. TMD was categorized as mild, moderate, severe, or no TMD based on the sum of these responses. The data were analysed using statistical software and a p-value less than or equal to 0.05 was set as significant.&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Results:&lt;/strong&gt; There were 52 (26.2%) males and 146 (73.7%) females with a mean age of 24.2 +1.22 years. Among 198 students, 104 were dental students while 94 were medical students. The prevalence of TMD was found to be 63.6% among all students. There was no TMD in 36.4% of students while 42.9% of students had mild TMD, and moderate and severe TMD was found in 14.1% and 6.6% of students, respectively. Mild (74%) and severe (6.7%) TMD were more prevalent in dental students than in medical students while moderate TMD was found more in medical students (16%). However, these differences were statistically not significant between dental and medical students (p &amp;gt; 0.005).&lt;/p&gt;&#x0D; &lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/strong&gt; TMD was found in both medical and dental students with no significant difference in severity between them. The study indicates the need to take on certain preventive and therapeutic strategies to address this disorder among anxiety-prone medical and dental students.&lt;/p&gt;

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Clinical Outcomes

ABSTRACT Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) encompass a range of clinical conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and associated structures. Management approaches for TMDs vary and include both surgical and non-surgical interventions. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, medical records of 150 patients diagnosed with TMDs were reviewed. Patients were categorized into two groups: surgical intervention and non-surgical intervention. The surgical group underwent various surgical procedures, including arthroscopy, arthroplasty, and joint replacement, while the non-surgical group received conservative treatments such as physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, and occlusal splints. Pain levels, TMJ function, quality of life (QoL), and patient satisfaction were assessed at baseline and post-treatment (6 months and 1 year). Results: At the 6-month follow-up, both groups experienced a significant reduction in pain scores (surgical group: 6.3 ± 1.2 to 2.4 ± 0.9, non-surgical group: 6.1 ± 1.1 to 3.2 ± 1.0). TMJ function improved in both groups (surgical group: 2.5 ± 0.8 to 4.8 ± 0.6, non-surgical group: 2.6 ± 0.7 to 4.2 ± 0.9). QoL scores increased (surgical group: 35.2 ± 4.6 to 50.3 ± 5.1, non-surgical group: 35.5 ± 4.2 to 45.7 ± 4.8), and patient satisfaction rates were high (surgical group: 92%, non-surgical group: 87%) at the 1-year follow-up. Conclusion: Both surgical and non-surgical management approaches demonstrated significant improvements in pain relief, TMJ function, QoL, and patient satisfaction for individuals with TMDs.

Late Complications in Long-Term Childhood Cancer Survivors: What the Oral Health Professional Needs to Know.

With diagnostic and therapeutic advances, over 80% of children diagnosed with cancer become long-term survivors. As the number of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) continues to increase, dental practitioners become more likely to have CCS among their patients. CCS may develop late complications from damage caused by their cancer treatment to endocrine, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and other organ systems. These complications may surface decades after the completion of treatment. Adverse outcomes of childhood cancer treatment frequently involve oral and craniofacial structures including the dentition. Tooth development, salivary gland function, craniofacial growth, and temporomandibular joint function may be disturbed, increasing oral health risks in these individuals. Moreover, CCS are at risk of developing subsequent malignancies, which may manifest in or near the oral cavity. It is important that dental practitioners are aware of the childhood cancer history of their patients and have knowledge of potential late complications. Therefore, this narrative review aims to inform dental practitioners of late oral complications of cancer treatment modalities commonly used in pediatric oncology. Furthermore, selected common non-oral late sequelae of cancer therapy that could have an impact on oral health and on delivering dental care will be discussed.

Study of Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorders among Undergraduate Students

Temporo-mandibular joint function has been extensively studied for more despite extensive investigation, the complicated etiology of TMJ dysfunction has remained a mystery for more than a century. Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a sub - class of painful orofacial conditions characterized by complaints of pain in the region of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), difficulty concentrating craniocervicofacial muscles, especially mastication muscles, limitations of mandibular movement, and the presence of articular clicking. Emotional stress, occlusal interferences, tooth loss, postural deviation, muscles of mastication neuromuscular both internal and external dysfunction anomalies in Temporo-mandibular joint anatomy, and the multiple interrelationships between these factors all contribute to the complicated etiology of TMD.Aim: Determine the prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorder between college students. The sample for this sectional potential study consisted of 691 college students (339 male and 352 female). Self-reported questionnaires were used to determine the incidence and severity of TMJ disorders. By virtue of the quantity and frequency of notable replies, the rankings were upgraded to an intensity ranking. Results:56.6% of students reported some level of TMD, including 39.7% with mild TMD, 12.2% with moderate TMD, and 4.6% with severe TMD. Historically, no significant correlation between gender and TMD severity was observed.Conclusion: This student population exhibited a high prevalence of TMD; however, the majority of cases were mild. The statistical significance of the association between TMD severity and gender is no longer proven. Despite having TMD. The students had little knowledge of their conditions.

Long-Term Follow-Up of Orthognathic Surgery in 19 Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

Dentofacial deformity following juvenile idiopathic arthritis with temporomandibular joint involvement is associated with functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial impairment. Surgical treatment may involve combinations of orthognathic surgery. The aims of this retrospective study were to assess orofacial symptoms, functional and aesthetic status, and stability after orthognathic surgery. Nineteen patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and dentofacial deformities were included. All patients were treated with combinations of bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, Le Fort I and/or genioplasty, between September 10, 2007 and October 17, 2017. Analysis of patient symptoms and clinical registrations, and frontal/lateral cephalograms was performed pre- and postoperative and long-term (mean: 3.8 and 2.6 years, respectively). Patients experienced no changes in orofacial symptoms or TMJ function, and stable normalisation of horizontal and vertical incisal relations at long-term (horizontal overbite; vertical overbite: P < 0.05). Mandibular lengthening was achieved postoperatively (from mean 79.7 to 87.2 mm; P = 0.004) and was stable. Sella-nasion to A point (SNA) and sella-nasion to B point (SNB) angles increased postoperatively (SNA, mean 79.9° to 82.8°; P = 0.022 and SNB, mean 73.9° to 77.8°; P = 0.003), however, largely reverted to preoperative status at long-term. Orthognathic surgery normalized incisal relations while providing stable mandibular lengthening without long-term deterioration of temporomandibular joint function or orofacial symptoms. No long-term effect on jaw advancements was observed.

Effect of botulinum toxin type A on muscular temporomandibular disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) is increasingly used to manage painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, the effect of BTX-A on muscular TMD remains unclear. To assess the efficacy, safety and optimal dose of BTX-A for treating TMD. We conducted systematic literature searches in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Library until March 2023. We extracted data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the efficacy and safety of BTX-A in treating muscular TMD. We performed a meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Fifteen RCTs involving 504 participants met the inclusion criteria. BTX-A was significantly more effective than placebo in reducing pain intensity, as measured on a 0-10 scale, at 1 month (MD [95% CI] = -1.92 [-2.87, -0.98], p < .0001) and 6 months (MD [95% CI] -2.08, [-3.19 to -0.98]; p = .0002). A higher dosage of BTX-A (60-100 U bilaterally) was associated with a greater reduction in pain at 6 months (MD [95% CI] = -2.98 [-3.52, -2.44]; p < .001). BTX-A also resulted in decreased masseter muscle intensity (μV) (MD [95% CI] = -44.43 [-71.33, -17.53]; p = .001) at 1 month and occlusal force (kg) at 3 months (MD [95% CI] = -30.29 [-48.22 to -12.37]; p = .0009). There was no significant difference in adverse events between BTX-A and placebo. BTX-A is a safe and effective treatment for reducing pain and improving temporomandibular muscle and joint function in muscular TMD patients. A bilateral dose of 60-100 U might be an optimal choice for treating muscular TMD pain.

Enhancing Temporomandibular Joint Function in Cerebral Palsy: A Comprehensive Investigation of the Impact and Efficacy of a Structured Exercise Program

Enhancing Temporomandibular Joint Function in Cerebral Palsy: A Comprehensive Investigation of the Impact and Efficacy of a Structured Exercise Program

Comprehensive Long-Term Outcomes Following Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis.

To describe long-term outcomes and complications following mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) in a diverse patient cohort. Cross-sectional study. Single tertiary-care pediatric center. Forty-eight patients previously undergoing MDO with minimum 4-year follow-up. Respiratory outcomes, feeding patterns, dental development, motor/sensory nerve function, temporo-mandibular joint function, and postsurgical scarring. Forty-six patients with a median age of 7 years were evaluated. Of 20 nonsyndromic patients, none required additional airway procedures, none required continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) during sleep, and 19 (95%) fed exclusively by mouth. Among 26 syndromic patients, 7 (27%) required CPAP and 8 (31%) were tube fed. Permanent first molar differences were seen in the majority of subjects; patterns of damage interfering with function were more common in syndromic (13/28, 46%) compared to nonsyndromic (5/24, 21%; P = .014) subjects. MDO prior to age two was associated with more frequent and worse dental damage (P = .001). Inferior alveolar nerve and marginal mandibular nerve function were fully intact in 37 (80%) and 39 (85%) of patients, respectively. Three patients (6%), all with associated genetic syndromes, demonstrated severe nerve impairment. By the Vancouver scar scale, ≥ 80% of surgical scars were rated in the most favorable category for each quality assessed. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction was rare. MDO shows highly favorable long-term respiratory, feeding, nerve, and scar outcomes in nonsyndromic patients, although permanent molar changes not precluding tooth viability are commonly seen. Patients with associated syndromes demonstrate respiratory and feeding benefits, but higher rates of dental and nerve abnormalities.

Orthodontics and Temporomandibular Disorders: An Overview.

The relationship between orthodontics and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) constitutes a subject of paramount significance in dental and craniofacial health. This abstract embarks upon an in-depth examination of the intricate connection between orthodontic practices and TMD, primarily focusing on evaluating the impact of orthodontic treatment modalities on the health and functionality of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This exploration elucidates the multifaceted interplay between orthodontic interventions and TMD by traversing a landscape of scholarly research and empirical investigations. The review draws from a broad spectrum of studies to analyze the potential influence of orthodontic treatments, which encompass occlusal adjustments and alterations in jaw positioning, on the development and management of TMD symptoms. The inquiry delves into the diverse range of TMD conditions, considering the implications of orthodontic techniques on occlusal stability, condylar alignment, and overall TMJ function. Through a comprehensive synthesis of the available body of knowledge, this abstract aspires to equip dental practitioners, orthodontists, and researchers with a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that govern the relationship between orthodontics and TMD. This knowledge, in turn, offers a foundation for informed clinical decision-making and the formulation of effective treatment strategies for patients presenting with TMD symptoms. By shedding light on the intricate interactions between orthodontic procedures and TMJ health, this abstract contributes to the advancement of clinical practices, promoting improved patient outcomes and well-being in the context of both orthodontics and TMDs.

Retracted: Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Pulpitis Treated with Different Root Canal Flushing Fluids Based on VAS and Temporomandibular Joint Function.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1155/2022/1470389.].

Effective Physiotherapy Intervention for Restoring Temporomandibular Joint Function in a Post-Buccal Mucosa Carcinoma Patient: A Case Report

Effective Physiotherapy Intervention for Restoring Temporomandibular Joint Function in a Post-Buccal Mucosa Carcinoma Patient: A Case Report

Efficacy of Digital Occlusal Splint Technology in the Treatment of Irreducible Anterior Displacement of Temporomandibular Joint Disc

This study investigates the efficacy of digital occlusal splint technology in treating irreducible anterior displacement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc and assesses its impact on clinical symptoms and TMJ function. A total of 36 patients treated for irreducible anterior displacement of the TMJ disc at our hospital from January to December 2022 were enrolled and randomized either into the digital occlusal splint group (digital group) or the traditional occlusal splint group (traditional group), with 18 patients in each group. The treatment duration for all patients was 12 weeks. Clinical adjustment time for occlusion was compared between the two groups. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) recorded and evaluated pain intensity and patient comfort at initial wear, 1 week, and 4 weeks after splint usage. Maximum active mouth opening was measured before treatment and at 1, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-treatment. The Fricton TMJ Dysfunction Index evaluated clinical efficacy based on parameters such as mandibular movement, joint noise, joint palpation, muscle palpation, dysfunction index, muscle tenderness index, and joint dysfunction index. Patient satisfaction with treatment was compared between the two groups. The clinical adjustment time for the digital occlusal splint was significantly shorter than that for the traditional occlusal splint (P &lt; 0.05). At 4 weeks, the digital group exhibited significantly lower pain scores than the traditional group (P &lt; 0.05). At 1 and 4 weeks, the digital group demonstrated significantly better comfort scores than the traditional group (P &lt; 0.05). There was no significant difference in maximum active mouth opening between the two groups before treatment and at 1 week after treatment (P &gt; 0.05). However, at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, the digital group displayed significantly greater maximum active mouth opening than the traditional group (P &lt; 0.05). The Fricton indices for the digital group were significantly lower than those for the traditional group after treatment (P &lt; 0.05). The patient satisfaction survey revealed a 100% satisfaction rate for the digital group and 88.9% for the traditional group (P &lt; 0.05). The application of digital occlusal splint technology in treating irreducible anterior displacement of the TMJ disc demonstrates excellent efficacy. It effectively shortens clinical adjustment time for the splint and significantly improves clinical symptoms and TMJ function in patients. This technology is worth promoting in clinical practice.

Investigation of Condyle Positions in Patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Objective: The condylar position refers to the location of the mandibular condyle within the glenoid fossa when the teeth are in maximum intercuspal, and it is an important indicator of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) function. This study aimed to assess the condylar position of the TMJ in patients with TMJ disorder using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: The present study utilized CBCT to evaluate the condylar position of the TMJ in a sample of 56 patients. Among them, 28 patients were asymptomatic while the remaining 28 had been diagnosed with TMJ disease. To evaluate the presence of TMJ disorders, the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders was employed. This diagnostic tool is widely used in clinical and research settings to assess TMJ-related pain and dysfunction. Results: The agreement was excellent, according to the intra-observer and inter-observer correlation values obtained. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of age and gender distribution. The results showed that the anterior and posterior joint spaces were significantly higher in the symptomatic group compared to the asymptomatic group. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of superior joint space and articular eminence inclination values. Gender did not create a significant difference in any parameter. Conclusion: The results of this study emphasize that CBCT images have an important role in detecting significant changes in condyle position in patients with TMJ disorders. However, further large-scale studies are necessary to validate and enhance the findings.

Treatment of dentofacial deformities secondary to condylar hyperplasia.

Dentofacial deformities secondary to condylar hyperplasiais a kind of disease presenting facial asymmetry, malocclusion, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and other symptoms caused by non-neoplastic hyperplasia of the condyle. The etiology is still unknown, and currently, pre- and post-operative orthodontics accompanied by orthognathic surgery, temporomandibular joint surgery and jawbone contouring surgery are the main treatment methods. A personalized treatment plan was developed, considering the active degree of condyle hyperplasia, the severity of the jaw deformity, and the patient's will, to correct deformity, obtain ideal occlusal relationship, and regain good temporomandibular joint function. Combined with the author's clinical experience, the etiology, clinical and imageological features, treatment aims, and surgical methods of condylar hyperplasia and secondary dentofacial deformities were discussed in this paper.