EFFECT OF SKELETAL MALOCCLUSIONS ON TMJ HEALTH-A DESCRIPTIVECROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are musculoskeletal conditions that represent a group of conditions that involve the masticatory muscles, TMJ, and other related tissues. TMD is associated with various factors and skeletal malocclusion is implicated as one of the etiological factors cited inadequately in the literature. To formulate a hypothesis that skeletal malocclusion plays a crucial role in TMJ health. Aim: To assess the effect of skeletal malocclusions on TMJ health. Materials and Methods: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study was conducted with 180 samples divided into three groups of 60 each with skeletal class I, II, and III malocclusions reported to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department from June 2022 to December 2023. In each group, data was obtained through clinical examination, radiographs, and a DC/TMD chart. The severity of the functional TMJ is recorded using a modified Helkimo Anamnestic index and the observations were analysed to assess the relation between skeletal malocclusion and TMJ health. Results: Skeletal malocclusion significantly affected TMJ function and morphology. Disc displacement was more prevalent in Class I (p < 0.05), while trauma from occlusion was more frequently observed in Class III (p < 0.05). Headache symptoms were high in Class II, showing a significant correlation with TMJ dysfunction (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the varying TMJ impacts across different skeletal malocclusion classes. Conclusion: The present study supports the association of different skeletal malocclusions that contribute uniquely to TMD symptoms, with Class I being most associated with intra-articular TMD and Class III showing more muscle-related pain. Vertical growth patterns and occlusal trauma were also significant factors affecting TMJ health. This study provided a positive relationship between TMD and skeletal malocclusion