Evaluation of Normal Morphology of Mandibular Condyle: A Radiographic Survey

Objectives: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex, highly specialized joint. Along with the teeth, these joints are considered to be a "tri-joint complex." Mandibular condyle morphology is characterized by a rounded bone projection with an upper biconvex and oval surface in axial plane. Anatomical knowledge of the TMJ is one of the basic foundations of clinical practice, allowing the understanding of TMJ pathologies and fabrication of condylar prostheses. The cross-sectional descriptive study was undertaken to evaluate normal variation in the condylar morphology on radiographs in persons without TMJ symptomatology and its relation to age, gender, dentition status, chewing habits, parafunctional habits, history of orthodontic treatment, and denture wearing was assessed.

Material and methods: A total of 350 subjects without TMJ symptomatology included in the study were further grouped by age, gender, dentition status, chewing habits, parafunctional habits, history of orthodontic treatment, and denture wearing history. Panoramic radiograph was taken for the assessment of condylar morphology.

Results: A significant association between dentition status and bilaterally similar condylar morphology was noticed. Bilaterally similar condyles were seen in 81.4% of subjects. Round-shaped condyles were seen in 176 (62%) persons. Loss of bilateral occlusion tends to alter the condylar morphology. Association between normal chewing habits and bilaterally similar condyle shapes was significant.

Conclusion: The study describes the normal morphology of mandibular condyles in a population attending the tertiary dental care center, Kozhikode. The dentition status and chewing habits of individuals had a significant role in determining condylar morphology.