Evaluation of Condylar Space Measurements before and after Prosthetic Rehabilitation in a Defined Cohort using Cone-beam Computed Tomography: A Prospective, Preliminary, Interventional Study
K. V. Athira, K. Nanda Kumar, R. P. Shanoj, John Francis, P. Faseela, A. S. Manasa, J. Suresh Babu, C. Swarnalatha, Abhishek Singh NayyarAbstract
Background and Aim:
The temporomandibular joints (TMJs) play a crucial role in maintaining functional harmony of the stomatognathic system. Loss of natural dentition and the resulting alteration in mandibular positioning can lead to imbalances in the TMJs, contributing to temporomandibular disorders. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between posterior edentulousness and condylar space measurements before and after prosthetic rehabilitation in a defined cohort using cone-beam computed tomography.
Materials and Methods:
A prospective, preliminary, interventional study was conducted on 20 edentulous subjects, aged 50–65 years, presenting with complete edentulism in the maxilla and Kennedy’s Class I edentulism in the mandible, while the spatial relationship of the condyles within TMJs was assessed pre- and post-rehabilitation, and the results obtained were statistically analyzed.
Results:
The findings of the present study indicated that prosthetic intervention did not carry a significant impact on the anterior and superior joint spaces on the right side, while it led to a significant increase in the posterior joint space on the right side (
Conclusions:
The results revealed that prosthetic intervention led to notable changes in the condylar positioning, emphasizing the critical interrelationship between occlusion and TMJ dynamics. The study supports the concept that comprehensive prosthodontic care should not only aim to restore function and esthetics but also consider the biomechanical impact it carries on the health of the TMJs.