Radiological study of curvature of mandibular condyle at tertiary level hospital

Abstract

Temperomandibular joint is the articulation between the condyle of the mandible and the squamous portion of the temporal bone. It is the most important and complex part of the body and masticatory system. The mandibular condyle plays a crucial role as an anatomical reference point for facial growth, exhibiting an upward and backward orientation. The configuration of the mandibular condyle varies significantly across age groups and among individuals. These morphological differences are influenced by developmental variations and undergo condylar remodeling to adapt to conditions such as malocclusion, trauma, and other pathological and developmental abnormalities.To evaluate the morphological variations in mandibular condylar shapes using panoramic radiographs in the Indian population across different age and gender groups. 1. To classify and analyze the different shapes of mandibular condyles (oval, bird beak, diamond, and crooked finger) observed in orthopantomograms (OPGs). 2. To examine the prevalence of these morphological variations based on age groups (18–35, 36–55, and 56+ years). 3. To assess the gender-based distribution of condylar morphological types. 4. To contribute to the understanding of condylar morphological characteristics specific to the Indian population for better clinical and diagnostic reference. The sample comprised 125 females and 125 males. The participants were categorized into three age groups: Group 1: Young Age(18-35 years), Group 2: Middle Age(36–55 years), and Group 3: Older Age(56 years or above). A total of 250 OPGs were meticulously reviewed to determine condylar morphology. Most common shape condyle found in this study was bird beak followed by oval. Least common condyle shape was crooked finger followed by diamond.In conclusion, this study unveiled a spectrum of condylar morphologies within the Indian population, with bird beak, oval, diamond, and crooked finger types identified. Notably, the oval condylar shape emerged as the most prevalent among both genders and across all age groups.