TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT OSTEOARTHRITIC CHANGES AND NECK DISABILITY: A CLINICAL AND RADIOLOGICAL STUDY

The 30th Anniversary Congress of the Balkan Stomatological Society , Thessaloniki, Yunanistan, 7 - 09 Mayıs 2026, ss.70, (Özet Bildiri)

1.Introduction

Pain and functional limitations originating from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) may

influence the cervical region and head–neck posture. The Neck Disability Index (NDI) is a

validated instrument for assessing the impact of upper cervical dysfunction on daily activities.

2.Objective

This study aimed to evaluate morphological changes in the TMJ using cone beam computed

tomography (CBCT) and to investigate their potential effects on cervical function as assessed

by the NDI.

3. Materials and Methods

This study included CBCT images of 150 patients (101 females and 49 males) who presented

to our clinic. Clinical findings were recorded using a standardized TMJ examination form.

CBCT images were evaluated for condylar surface erosion, flattening, subchondral sclerosis,

subchondral cysts, osteophyte formation, and loose bodies. Cervical dysfunction and its

impact on quality of life were assessed using the NDI. Based on their NDI scores, patients

were classified as having no, mild, or severe disability.

4. Results

Statistically significant differences were observed among NDI groups with respect to

condylar erosion, flattening, subchondral sclerosis, osteophyte formation, and loose bodies

(p<0.05). NDI groups were also significantly associated with restricted mouth opening, self-

reported bruxism, and pain intensity measured by the VAS (p<0.05). No significant

association was found between NDI groups and joint sounds or TMJ tenderness on palpation.

5. Conclusions

According to the results of the study, higher NDI scores tended to be associated not only with

radiographic evidence of degenerative changes but also with clinical TMJ symptoms, such as

pain and restricted mouth opening.