Association Between Impacted Mandibular Third Molars and Temporomandibular Dysfunction: An Analysis Based on the Modified Helkimo Index.

Background and Objectives: To evaluate the impact of impacted mandibular third molars on temporomandibular joint dysfunction using the Modified Helkimo Index, analyzing symptom severity across age groups. Materials and Methods: A cohort of 140 patients (70 with impacted molars, 70 without) was assessed using the Modified Helkimo Index. Patients were categorized by age (<25, 26-30, 31-35, >36 years), and statistical comparisons between Icdi (with impacted molars) and Icda (without impacted molars) were performed. Key parameters included mandibular movement limitation, joint noises, and pain scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: TMJ dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in patients under 25 years (Icdi = 13.5, Icda = 11.0; p = 0.045), with a progressive decrease in severity in older groups (>36 years: Icdi = 3.5, Icda = 4.5; p = 0.072). Women exhibited a higher prevalence across all age categories (female-to-male ratio: <25 years = 2.7, >36 years = 3.0). The most frequent symptoms were mandibular movement restriction (42.5%), joint noises (38.2%), and pain (35.7%). Conclusions: Impacted third molars may significantly exacerbate TMJ dysfunctions, particularly in younger individuals and females, with a strong association between impacted molars and increased Modified Helkimo Index scores. Early extraction might mitigate symptoms, emphasizing the need for proactive clinical management.