European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

BACKGROUND: It is much evident that stress and bite force show either direct or indirect effects on periodontium whichin turn can cause changes in the temporomandibular joint tissues. Individual comparisons were executed but none of the studies were performed to find the correlation between all these parameters especially in theTMJ of asymptomatic stressed individuals using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
OBJECTIVES: The present research aimed to evaluate and correlate the Stress, Bite Force, Clinical Periodontal status and TMJ Radiographic changes using the gold standard technique i.e. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in order to perceive both soft and hard tissue changes of TMJ in the Asymptomatic stressed individuals.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: To categorize the stressed systemically healthy individuals from non-stressed individuals by using ISMAquestionnaire,and assess the periodontal status by using CPITN Probe, followed by bite force assessment using the Bite Force Sensor device and finally evaluate the temporomandibular joint soft and hard tissue changes by using MRI.
RESULTS: A significant correlation was seen between Bite Force and Stress condition; Gender and stress condition. Among right and left side first molar regions, males have shown a greater mean bite force on left sidethan females. No significant correlation was seen between bite force and periodontal clinical parameters (CAL, PPD& GI). However ,comparing mean bite fore on right and left sides with MRI changes of TMJ in all the views, even though no significant changes were reported, correlation were found to be negative.
CONCLUSION: Based on the preliminary results observed by clinical (stress, bite force, periodontal parameters) and MRI examinations (soft tissue changes), no direct relationship could be determined between stress and soft tissue changes of TMJ, but due to presence of mild osteoarthritic changes in the condyle in few asymptomatic subjects, these patients can be more prone to osteoarthritis condition in near future