Correlation between Steepness of Articular Eminence and Progressive Internal Derangement of Temporomandibular Joint

Giedrë Kobs1, Olaf Bernhardt2, Georg Meyer2 1 Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, Institute of Stomatology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania 2 Department of Restorative Dentistry, Periodontology and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, University of Greifswald, Germany The purpose of our research was to verify the hypothesis that flat articular eminence is the result of progressive internal derangement (ID) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). 614 joints were classified into five diagnostic groups (stages of ID). The assessment of TMJ internal derangement was based on the sagittal plane magnetic resonance images (MRI). The steepness of articular eminence was determined by computerized axiography. The results of the study could not identify any correlation between steepness of articular eminence and progressive internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint. These data suggest that any change of articular eminence steepness induced by remodelling or degenerative changes secondary to ID is not essential.