Malocclusion Associated With Temporomandibular Joint Anterior Disc Displacement and Condylar Resorption in Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: Anterior disc displacement (ADD) is the most common type of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangement and may lead to condylar resorption (CR) during the adolescence period, but the specific malocclusion associated with ADD and CR remains unclear.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the malocclusion associated with TMJ ADD and CR in adolescents.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included a clinical examination of adolescent patients aged 11-19 years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to diagnose both TMJ ADD and CR. Occlusal measurements were obtained and analysed using 3D scanning models.

Results: A total of 242 adolescent patients (53 males and 189 females) underwent TMJ MRI examination and dental occlusion scanning. The prevalence of anterior disc displacement without reduction (ADDwoR) was higher in females than that in males (OR > 1, p < 0.05). Deep overbite and posterior scissor bite were significantly associated with anterior disc displacement with reduction (ADDwR), while Angle Class II malocclusion, anterior open bite and posterior scissor bite were significantly associated with ADDwoR (OR > 1, p < 0.05). Adolescents with excessive overjet and anterior open bite were at a higher risk of CR (OR > 1, p < 0.05), whereas those with deep overbite and individual crossbite had a lower risk of CR (OR < 1, p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Our study offers valuable insights into the association between deep overbite, posterior scissor bite, Angle Class II malocclusion, anterior open bite, excessive overjet and the ADD and CR in adolescents. Orthodontic treatment for adolescent patients should prioritise the health of the TMJ, particularly for these types of malocclusion.