EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT (TMJ) FUNCTIONALITY AND IMPACTED THIRD MOLARS: A SCOPING REVIEW

Background: The TMJ and impacted third molars are integral to the masticatory system, yet their specific influence on each other remains a captivating area requiring comprehensive exploration.This scoping review investigates the intricate relationship between impacted third molars and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) functionality. Methodology: Implemented following the Arksey and OMalley Framework, a systematic search across PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest databases to identify studies exploring the relationship between impacted third molars and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Inclusion criteria covered clinical studies, prevalence studies, and randomized control trials, focusing on patients with impacted third molars and TMD. Results: A rigorous screening process identified 11 relevant studies, including systematic reviews, prevalence studies, and randomized control trials. Key factors influencing TMD outcomes encompassed third molar location, degree of impaction, surgical difficulty, patient demographics, and psychological status. Conclusions: The intricate interplay between impacted third molars and TMJ functionality, reveals a complex relationship influenced by various factors. Certain types of impaction (Disto-verted), supra-erupted third molars, and extracting specific types (horizontal) of impacted third molars may positively impact TMJ-related symptoms. Further research, particularly randomized clinical trials, is essential to validate these associations and contribute to evidence-based guidelines for TMD management.