Correlation between posterior edentulousness and temporomandibular disorder in adult population: A case control study

Back ground: Posterior tooth loss significantly reduces chewing efficiency, causes loss of posterior support, movement of remaining teeth and changes in occlusal contacts, in turn, increasing risk of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Materials and methods: A case control study was conducted to assess correlation between posterior tooth loss and temporomandibular disorders.70 patients with unrestored posterior edentulous areas and 70 partially edentulous patients using removable partial denture prostheses to replace all missing teeth were assessed using Helkimo Index and compared. Results: Linear regression analysis of Pearson used to analyse Helkimo Anamnestic index scores (OR =1.28 CI 0.46 to 2.106) and clinical dysfunction index scores (OR =1.12 CI 0.125 to 2.11) at 95% confidence level for posterior tooth loss without replacement and removable partial denture wearers. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups. (p=0.110 and p=0.265). Conclusion: A case control study was conducted to assess the role of posterior tooth loss in development of TMD with removable partial dentures wearers as controls. Outcome measures including patient verified TMD symptoms and clinically verified TMD signs were scored using the Helkimo Index. Statistically insignificant difference was seen between posterior tooth loss group and denture wearing group in their association with signs and symptoms of TMD.