Relation between Missing Molars and Articular Eminence Inclination

Background: The articular eminence (AE) is part of the temporal bone on which the condylar process slides during mandibular movements. Aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation between unilateral missing molar and inclination of articular eminence. Material and methods: In this retrospective study, (32) digital panoramic radiograph selected from archives of radiology clinic, oral diagnosis department /College of dentistry / University of Baghdad. Patients age ranged between (25-69 year). About (64) joints of (14) males and (18) females with unilateral missing molars were evaluated and articular inclination measured. Result and discussion: The mean value of the articular-eminence inclination of missing side for male group (47.42) was lower than those of female group (47.83), and the mean value in all missing side was (47.62) higher than non-missing side (46.87). Conclusion: this was the second study on the effect of unilateral molar loss on articular eminence inclination and we could not find any significant differences association in the study group.