An MRI evaluation of the effects of qat chewing habit on the temporomandibular joint.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the qat chewing habit on the temporomandibular joint by using magnetic resonance imaging.

STUDY

DESIGN

Sixty patients were included: a study group (40 qat chewers) and a control group (20 nonchewers). On the basis of qat chewing habit duration, the study group was subdivided into 3 further subgroups: subgroup I (5-10 years), subgroup II (11-15 years), and subgroup III (>15 years). Data on qat chewing habit were recorded, and a standardized clinical examination was performed. Bilateral oblique sagittal magnetic resonance imaging sections were obtained to evaluate disk displacement, osteoarthritis, and joint effusion.

RESULTS

Clicking and pain were diagnosed in 72.5% and 65% of study group patients, respectively. Significant differences were discovered between the study group and the control group in osteoarthritis and joint effusion (P= .003 and .002, respectively). With regard to qat chewing habit duration, there were differences between study subgroup II and subgroup III versus control group in osteoarthritis (P= .040 and .001, respectively) and the 3 study subgroups versus control group in joint effusion (P= .026, .004, and .001, respectively). Significant correlations were found between osteoarthritis and clicking (P= .006) and muscle pain (P ≤ .044), and between joint effusion and temporomandibular joint pain (P = .006) and muscle pain (P ≤ .014).

CONCLUSIONS

Qat chewing habit may be a risk factor for temporomandibular joint disorders with high percentages of osteoarthritis and joint effusion.