Association Between Impacted Mandibular Third Molars and Temporomandibular Dysfunction: An Analysis Based on the Modified Helkimo Index

<i>Background and Objectives</i>: To evaluate the impact of impacted mandibular third molars on temporomandibular joint dysfunction using the Modified Helkimo Index, analyzing symptom severity across age groups. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: A cohort of 140 patients (70 with impacted molars, 70 without) was assessed using the Modified Helkimo Index. Patients were categorized by age (<25, 26-30, 31-35, >36 years), and statistical comparisons between Icdⁱ (with impacted molars) and Icd^a (without impacted molars) were performed. Key parameters included mandibular movement limitation, joint noises, and pain scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests, with significance set at <i>p</i> < 0.05. <i>Results</i><b>:</b> TMJ dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in patients under 25 years (Icdⁱ = 13.5, Icd^a = 11.0; <i>p</i> = 0.045), with a progressive decrease in severity in older groups (>36 years: Icdⁱ = 3.5, Icd^a = 4.5; <i>p</i> = 0.072). Women exhibited a higher prevalence across all age categories (female-to-male ratio: <25 years = 2.7, >36 years = 3.0). The most frequent symptoms were mandibular movement restriction (42.5%), joint noises (38.2%), and pain (35.7%). <i>Conclusions</i>: Impacted third molars may significantly exacerbate TMJ dysfunctions, particularly in younger individuals and females, with a strong association between impacted molars and increased Modified Helkimo Index scores. Early extraction might mitigate symptoms, emphasizing the need for proactive clinical management.