THIRD MOLAR OVER-ERUPTION AS A POTENTIAL CONTRIBUTOR TO TMJ DYSFUNCTION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL IMAGING EVALUATION

The evolution of human beings has led to significant changes in the third molars (wisdom teeth), characterized by congenital absence, impaction, abnormal tooth positioning, and occlusal disturbances. While some studies have suggested a potential link between the elongation of third molars and the absence of opposing teeth, systematic research on this topic is lacking. Furthermore, the relationship between abnormal occlusal features of third molars and temporomandibular disorders (e.g., anterior disc displacement with reduction, osteoarthritis) remains to be explored. Notably, there appears to be a substantial correlation between morphological alterations in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the elongation of third molars. This mechanism may involve condyle displacement due to a disorder, subsequently leading to a disruption in the disc-condyle relationship