Condylar Osseous Changes in Bruxism Patients: A CBCT Assessment of Symptomatic vs. Asymptomatic Temporomandibular Joints in an Indian Cohort

AbstractObjectives: Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs), characterized by orofacial pain and functional limitations, are linked to degenerative condylar osseous changes like flattening, erosion, osteophytes, and sclerosis. Bruxism, an excessive jaw activity, is a primary contributing factor, exerting supraphysiologic forces on the TMJ. Given the diagnostic advantages of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and limited specific data in India, this cross-sectional observational study, conducted from March 2023 to March 2024, aimed to evaluate and correlate condylar alterations in 60 Indian bruxism patients (aged 18-35), comparing symptomatic (n=30) and asymptomatic (n=30) TMD groups using CBCT. Symptomatic patients exhibited significantly higher VAS scores (5.7±1.35 vs. 1.2±0.68; p<0.05).Results: Overall osseous changes differed significantly between groups (p=0.002), with flattening and sclerosis more prevalent in symptomatic cases, while osteophytes and erosion appeared proportionally higher in asymptomatic individuals. A highly significant side wise difference was noted (p=0.001), but no significant gender difference was found (p=0.06).Conclusions: This study confirms bruxism's association with distinct condylar osseous changes detectable by CBCT, highlighting its value for early detection and intervention to mitigate TMJ degeneration.