Correlations of temporomandibular joint morphology and position using cone-beam computed tomography and dynamic functional analysis in orthodontic patients: A cross-sectional study

• Published in: Korean journal of orthodontics (2012) Vol. 54; no. 5; pp. 325 - 341
• Main Authors: Bin Xu, Jung-Jin Park, Seong-Hun Kim
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Korean
• Published: 2024
• Subjects: Temporomandibular joint; Joint vibration analysis; Cone-beam computed tomography; Jaw tracker
• ISSN: 2234-7518; 2005-372X

Objective: To correlate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) morphology and position with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, Joint Vibration Analysis (JVA), and Jaw Tracker (JT) to develop a radiation-free, dynamic method for screening and monitoring the TMJ in orthodontic patients. Methods: A total of 236 orthodontic patients without symptoms of TMJ disorders who had undergone CBCT were selected for the JVA and JT tests in this cross-sectional study. TMJ position and morphology were measured using a three-dimensional analysis software. JT measurements involved six opening-closing cycles, and JVA measurements were performed using a metronome to guide the mouth opening-closing movements of the patients. The correlations among the three measuring devices were evaluated. Results: Abnormalities in condylar surface morphology affected the mandibular range of motion. The cut-off value results show that when various measurement groups are within a certain range, abnormalities may be observed in morphology (area under the curve, 0.81; P < 0.001). A 300/< 300 Hz ratio ≥ 0.09 suggested abnormal morphology (P < 0.05). Correlations were observed among the maximum opening velocity, maximum vertical opening position, and joint spaces in the JT measurements. Correlations were also observed between the > 300/< 300 Hz ratio, median frequency, total integral, integral < 300 Hz, and peak frequency with joint spaces in the JVA measurements. Conclusions: JT and JVA may serve as rapid, non-invasive, and radiation-free dynamic diagnostic tools for monitoring and screening TMJ abnormalities before and during orthodontic treatment.