A tomographic study of the mandibular condyle position in partially edentulous population.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The Influence of the loss of teeth on the condylar position and on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction syndrome remains a c ontroversial issue. This study analyses the condylar position by means of a tomogram in partially dentate subjects which serves as a guide to predict which of the partially dentate statuses is prone to develop TMJ dysfunction syndrome in personnel without symptoms of the same. METHODOLOGY Eighty personnel were enrolled in this study consisting of Kennedy's class I, II, III, IV and control to analyze the condylar position by means of a tomogram. In all the five groups TMJ sectional tomogram programmed in a panoramic radiographic machine (PLANMECA PM 2002 CC PROLINE) was taken with the subjects at maximal intercuspal position and rest position. Tomograms were evaluated using linear measurements of the anterior and posterior intra-articular joint spaces on the basis of drawings and tracings. RESULTS The results of the study revealed a predominance of reduced posterior condylar space in Kennedy's class I and II. A disparity was seen between the maximum intercuspal position and rest position, where the posterior joint space was reduced in the rest position. CONCLUSION Within the limitations of this study, it has been revealed that in Kennedy's classes I and II, for partially dentate personnel, a posterior displacement of the c ondyles was seen. This predisposition would suggest towards the necessity of restoring the missing dentition in order to maintain the har mony of the stomatognathic system.