The influence of articular eminence morphology on temporomandibular joint anterior dislocations

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between the bony morphology of the articular eminence and the occurrence of idiopathic anterior temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation. Study Design. A comparative retrospective study was conducted in 14 patients with idiopathic anterior dislocations (study group) and 14 patients who did not suffer from any TMJ disorders (control group). All patients underwent multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), which demonstrated the full extent of their joints. The scans of 56 joints were reconstructed and analyzed by using the tools available in Dolphin 3 software. Gross morphology characteristics and fine morphologic characteristics were defined by measuring the articular eminence inclination and height on the lateral, middle, and medial aspects of the articular eminence. Results. Gross and fine morphologic characteristics of the articular eminence did not differ statistically between the study group and the control group. Conclusions. Articular eminence morphology does not affect TMJ idiopathic anterior dislocation.