Evolutionary Changes in Oral Regions (Temporomandibular Joint)

Background: Evolution represents a gradual developmental process that forms the foundation of modern science, widely recognized as a scientific theory supported by various fields of research. One observable example of evolution in the oral cavity is the third molar (molar 3). In ancient times, third molars erupted normally due to larger jaw sizes. However, as human jaws evolved and became smaller, third molar impaction—a pathological condition where a tooth fails to erupt properly—has become increasingly common. Impaction occurs due to limited space and improper jaw angulation, which create gaps between teeth that trap food debris and increase the risk of dental complications. Odontectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove unerupted, partially erupted teeth, or retained roots that cannot be extracted using conventional techniques. Materials and Methods: This study employed a systematic literature review method, gathering data from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. Keywords included "Evaluation of teeth," "Temporomandibular Joint Evolution," "Impacted Third Molars," and "Human Dentition Evolution." Relevant studies published between 1991 and 2023 were selected based on inclusion criteria that focused on the evolution of teeth and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Results and Conclusion: The study identifies significant evolutionary changes in the oral region, particularly in the TMJ, influenced by shifts in dietary habits, environmental factors, and human adaptability. The reduction in jaw size and altered chewing mechanics have contributed to the increased prevalence of impacted third molars (M3s), resulting in complications such as pericoronitis, cyst formation, and neuralgic pain [19,20]. Evolutionary adaptations in the TMJ enabled functional demands like speaking, chewing, and swallowing, but also increased susceptibility to disorders such as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD) [1,11]. These findings highlight the critical role of evolutionary biology in understanding and addressing contemporary oral health issues. Future research should focus on developing targeted treatment strategies and preventive measures to mitigate challenges associated with these evolutionary adaptations.