Analysis of the correlation between dental arch and articular eminence morphology: a cone beam computed tomography study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to assess the correlation between the morphology of the dental arches (DAs) of patients with normal occlusion and of the articular eminence (AE) by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

STUDY DESIGN: CBCT scans of 60 patients were evaluated in terms of height and inclinations (angles α, β, and δ) of the AE. DAs were classified according to their shapes (tapered, square, ovoid), and their perimeters, widths, and depths were measured. One-way analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and simple and multivariate linear regression models were used for the calculations.

RESULTS: The ovoid arch was the most predominant shape (n = 66/120). Inclination of the AE (angle β) had the greatest difference between DA shapes, with this angle usually being greater in the ovoid arch and smaller in the square arch (P < .05). The height of the AE presented greater correlation with DA measurements, with tapered arches having the most significant correlations (P < .05). DA depth had no influence on AE measurements (P > .05). The perimeter and width of the DAs had some influence (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Correlations were found between the DA and AE morphologies. The correlations should be taken into consideration, although the results do not prove absolute association between the variables. Whenever possible, the morphologic features of DAs should be preserved to avoid possible changes in AE.