Relationships between Intermittent Locking History and Self-Reported Bruxism in Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate aggravating factors of intermittent locking among temporomandibular joint using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorder (DC/TMD) diagnosis.Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 35 patients with intermittent locking history but normal intra-articular findings between September 2012 and June 2015 in Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital. A standardized DC/TMD assessment was performed on subjects with MRI findings. Clinical findings were assessed on the basis of maximum mouth opening (active & passive), self-reported habits, patients' age, gender, systemic diseases at the initial visit. First, chi square test was used to examine differences with variables and then risk factors for intermittent locking were assessed using multivariate logistic regression.Results: Self-reported bruxism was strongly associated with intermittent locking history. Conclusions:The new DC/TMD protocol is intended for use within any clinical setting and supports the full range of diagnostic activities from screening to definitive evaluation and diagnosis. Self-reported sleep bruxism has been associated with a higher likelihood of intermittent locking. Comorbidity is therefore a factor that must be assessed. It is necessary to consider the amount of contact of the teeth and the duration.