The mandibular kinematics in relation to structural and functional modification of temporomandibular joint

The aim of this study was to correlate the possible connections between the statical and dynamical occlusion and the pathology of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles and parafunctions. Materials and methods: 83 subjects, 38,6% males and 61,4% females were included in the study. Initially we noted the presence of parafunction of stomatognatic system. We correlated the anamnestic data with the clinical results obtained after the examination. The clinical examinations were addressed to the TMJ, the jaw muscles and static and dynamic occlusion. Results: The results showed an increased frequency of malocclusion (71,1%)in women (p=0,004). As well, there is an evidence of an association between active premature contact and temporomandibular dysfunction: joint pain (p = 0.05), unilateral clicking (p = 0.05), and bilateral clicking (p = 0.06). Conclusions: This study showed that dental malocclusion, bruxism and other parafunctions could be considering favoring factors in producing of TMJ dysfunction, along with other associated pathologies.