The relationship between maxillofacial morphology and biomechanical environment in the TMJ during central clenching: A measurement and finite element analysis.

BACKGROUND

The relationship between maxillofacial morphology and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is unclear. The stress distribution in temporomandibular joints (TMJs) was a key feature in understanding the pathogenesis of TMD.

METHODS

Twenty-three subjects were scanned using MRI and CT in this study. The parameters of the subjects were measured. Finite element (FE) analyses were also conducted to evaluate the stress distribution in the TMJs. Paired correlations were then performed between the cephalometric parameters and FE results for the TMJs.

RESULTS

The results showed the anterior cranial base and posterior face height tended to increase alongside a clockwise rotated mandible. A larger posterior ramal height and mandibular length, and clockwise rotated mandible with a forward position were favorable for maintaining the disc in an optimal position.

CONCLUSIONS

The morphology parameters are statistically related to the stress distributions in the TMJs. Even small changes in maxillofacial morphology could result in abnormal stress distributions in TMJs, potentially leading to TMD.