Cone Beam CT Evaluations of Condyle Shape and Age-Related Associations of Articular Eminence Morphology in Female TMD Patients

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to assess condyle shape and the relationship between age-related associations and articular eminence (AE) inclination in a group of female patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Methods: CBCT images of 64 temporomandibular joints (TMJs) of 32 female TMD patients (18-45-year-old) were evaluated sagittally and coronally. Condyle shape was assessed visually and the inclination of AE was analyzed using with best-fit and top-roof methods. AE heights were also measured. The patients were grouped into two age groups: 18 to 30-and 31 to 45-year-old. Data were statistically analyzed with SPSS software using Mann-Whitney-U test. Results: The most frequently observed condyle shape was flattened (39,1 %) in sagittal plane and triangular (43,8 %) in coronal plane. Triangular condyle shape was seen in 31.3% of condyles on coronal sections. No statistically significant differences were seen in two different age groups comparing AE inclination and height. Conclusion: Triangular and flattened condyles were the most frequent condyle shape in female TMD patients. Although AE inclination was highest between the ages of 18-30, there was no statistical significance.