Impact of bruxism on the mandibular angle and condylar structures: A panoramic radiographic assessment

Objectives The aim of this study is to comparatively evaluate morphologic changes in the mandibular angle and condylar region, assess the mandibular cortical index (MCI), and analyze the relationships between these parameters in bruxers and non-bruxers using panoramic radiographs. Methods A total of 182 patients (364 mandibular condyle and angle), 91 bruxers and 91 non-bruxers (controls), aged between 18 and 35, were participated in this study. Three hundred sixty four mandibular angles were classifed as G0, G1, G2, G3 in terms of bone apposition and direction change. In addition, osseous changes in the mandibular condyle were determined and the endoestal edge of the basal cortex was evaluated according to the MCI classifcation. Parameters were analyzed using the Pearson’s Chi-Square test and Fisher's Exact test. A p value<0.05 was considered signifcant. Result MCI class C1, G0 class, and normal condyle type were found to be signifcantly more common in the non-bruxist group than in the bruxist group (p<0.001, p=0.025, p=0.006, respectively). It was determined that deformity and MCI-C2 class were more common in the bruxist group (p=0.006, p<0.001). Morphologic changes in the endosteal margin of the cortex and in the condylar region were observed more frequently in bruxist individuals. Conclusion For a general overview of the probable presence of bruxism, osseous changes in the mandibular condyle, and MCI can be used as auxiliary diagnostic markers.