Objective: This study was designed to correlate the functional link between TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) dysfunction and altered Dens-Atlanto-Occipital joint relation in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs).
Methods: Archival Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 90 TMD patients and 30 healthy controls were subjected for secondary data analysis. The relationship between the Dens-Atlanto-Occipital joint and various grades of TMD were evaluated and statistically analyzed.
Results: TMD severity appeared to increase with the decrease in linear measurement between occipital condyle to dens and increase in both linear measurements between occipital condyle to the atlas, basion to the tip of dens on the symptomatic side. The findings were statistically significant in patients with TMD when compared with controls.
Conclusion: These findings indicate that radiographic evaluation of the Dens-Atlanto-Occipital joint is a reliable indicator of the presence and degree of TMD.