Qualitative and quantitative analysis of morphometric occlusal characteristics in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs)

The association between occlusion and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) has been studied extensively in the literature for many years and has generated a lot of discussion and controversy. Although the relationship between many variables of occlusion and signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders has been repeatedly investigated, the role of occlusal curvatures and palatal dimensions has not been studied in depth.;This study primarily aimed to investigate whether occlusal curvatures and palatal dimensions are associated with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders. Associations between other occlusal variables and TMDs were also studied. Furthermore, comparisons between subjects that had orthodontic treatment and subjects with no history of previous orthodontic treatment were done.;One hundred (100) subjects consented to participate in this research and were examined for signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders according to the guidelines of the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC-TMD). In addition dental impressions were taken of all subjects and occlusal measurements were performed on their study models. All statistical analyses were performed with SPSS (version 16).;The results revealed a weak association between occlusal characteristics and TMDs. Significant associations were found between the curve of Spee and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds. Furthermore, the steepness of the curve of Wilson was negatively correlated to palatal width and the depth of the curve of Spee was positively correlated to overbite. Subjects that had orthodontic treatment did not present more TMDs than subjects with no history of orthodontic treatment.;Based on the results of this particular study, no definitive conclusions can be drawn about the role of occlusal curvatures and palatal dimensions in the development of TMDs. Some significant associations, however, between occlusion and specific signs and symptoms were revealed. In addition, orthodontic treatment did not appear to be a significant predictor for the development of temporomandibular disorders.;The present study revealed that occlusion is a weak predictor for the development of temporomandibular disorders and confirmed that TMDs are multifactorial conditions that require a comprehensive treatment approach.