Modifications in Class I and Class II Div. 1 malocclusion during orthodontic treatment and their association with TMD problems.

Objective

To observe changes in tooth movements of patients with Class I and Class II malocclusion during the first 6 months of orthodontic treatment and to investigate the relation between TMJ problems and these changes.

Methods

The sample was comprised of 63 individuals (20 control, 25 Class I malocclusion, 18 Class II Div. 1 malocclusion). Occlusion analysis was performed through T-Scan® record and chewing pattern examination before and after the 6-month period. The existence of TMD was evaluated using joint vibration analysis (JVA). Patients with malocclusion had active fixed orthodontic treatment.

Results

Disclusion time reduced in the patients group during the treatment period. No association was observed between the first 6-month period of the orthodontic treatment and TMD. Discussion: It is suggested that occlusion analyses should be done before any orthodontic treatment, and disclusion time should be minimized as much as possible.