Comparison of clinical and magnetic resonance imagining data of patients with temporomandibular disorders

Abstract

Background: There are important criteria in the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). These become significant if supported by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Otherwise, these findings alone may not be sufficient to diagnose TMD. Aim: This study compared the relationship between clinical findings indicated by patient and physician and MRI results in the diagnosis of TMD. Materials and Methods: Clinical examinations were performed in patients suspected of TMD for pain, difficulty in mouth opening, masticatory muscle tenderness, deviation (during mouth opening), normal mouth opening, and presence of bruxism. The MRI findings of the patients were compared with the clinical examinations. Results: MRI and clinical examination data of 136 patients were examined. The results showed significant correlations between deviation, normal mouth opening, and MRI results of TMD (P < 0.05). No correlation was found between age groups and clinical findings of TMD. TMJ was determined in normal limits in 61% of MRI results. Conclusions: Except for deviation and normal mouth opening, complaints and clinical findings determined by the clinicians do not support TMD. This may be due to the subjective nature of the clinical findings, and MRI results are needed for precise results.