Flattening of the articular eminence is associated with the loss of occlusal support: radiological study

Abstract

Background: Degenerative changes in the temporomandibular joint might be associated with ageing and/or with the loss of occlusal support. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate whether the inclination of the posterior slope of the articular eminence changes in association with: (i) ageing in patients with maintained occlusal support zones (OSZs); and (ii) the loss of OSZs in elders. Methods: In this retrospective radiological study, selected orthopantomograms were allocated into the following groups: I—age 18–35, maintained OSZs, II—age 36–60, maintained OSZs, III—age >60, at least one OSZ per side maintained, IV—age >60, loss of all OSZs. The inclination of the articular eminence was measured relative to the Frankfort plane. Results: The mean values of the inclination of the slope of the articular eminence amounted 34.05° ± 5.17°, 36.68° ± 5.65°, 34.86° ± 6.26° and 26.31° ± 5.12° for group I, II, III and IV respectively. There were no significant differences between the groups I to III. Group IV differed significantly from each of the previous groups. Conclusions: Flattening of the articular eminence is associated with the loss of OSZs rather than ageing.