Evaluation of mouth opening and lateral sliding based on the severity of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in university students

Abstract

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most frequently used and anatomically complex joints in the human body. It is a joint that can vary among individuals regarding morphological features and joint slidings, even within the same person between the right and left sides. Diseases related to TMJ are commoanly encountered in routine clinical practice and are often overlooked. Our study aims to examine TMJD in university students and reveal the MMOA and the right and left LS of the jaw according to the severity of TMJD. A total of 180 volunteer students were included in the study. After recording demographic information, the severity of TMJD was assessed with the FAI, and individuals were grouped according to the severity of TMJD. The amount of MMOA and right and left LS of the jaw were measured using a digital caliper. The MMOA was calculated as 43.56 mm for females and 45.19 mm for males. The right-left LLS in females and males was determined as 5.3-7 mm and 5.55-7 mm, respectively. There was no significant relationship between FAI and demographic information (p>0.05). There was a significant difference in MMOA between groups separated by the severity of TMJD (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in the lateral sliding of the jaw between groups based on severity (p>0.05). According to our study, it was observed that MMOA changed according to the FAI scores of students. On the other hand, it was found that LLS did not change in groups according to FAI scores. Changes in MMOA according to the severity of TMJD should be considered in diagnosis and treatment planning.