Anatomical Variations in Condylar Shape and Symmetry: Study of 100 Patients

Anatomical knowledge of the TMJ is one of the foundations of clinical practice, allowing understanding pathological alterations, diagnostic evaluation through the resources of image diagnostics, and choice of appropriate therapeutic paths. Several studies shows there are variations in shape and symmetry of condylar head. The aim of the study was to determine and classify the shape of condyle in different types, relating them to sex and symmetry in a series of orthopantomogram (OPG). The sample included 100-OPG from 14 to 45 years old, 52 males and 48 females. Shapes were classified, antero-posterior width and symmetry verified in this present study. Shapes were classified as rounded, angled, flattened and mixed types in the lateral views. Round type of condyle is more frequent than other varieties. Bilateral symmetry in shape and antero-posterior width is comparatively less common. No as such sex predilection has been found in this present study for variations in shape and symmetry of condyle.