Association Between Impacted Mandibular Third Molars and Temporomandibular Dysfunction: An Analysis Based on the Modified Helkimo Index
<i>Background and Objectives</i>: To evaluate the impact of impacted mandibular third molars on temporomandibular joint dysfunction using the Modified Helkimo Index, analyzing symptom severity across age groups. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: A cohort of 140 patients (70 with...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-05-01
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| Series: | Medicina |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/61/5/850 |
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| Summary: | <i>Background and Objectives</i>: To evaluate the impact of impacted mandibular third molars on temporomandibular joint dysfunction using the Modified Helkimo Index, analyzing symptom severity across age groups. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: A cohort of 140 patients (70 with impacted molars, 70 without) was assessed using the Modified Helkimo Index. Patients were categorized by age (<25, 26–30, 31–35, >36 years), and statistical comparisons between Icd<sup>i</sup> (with impacted molars) and Icd<sup>a</sup> (without impacted molars) were performed. Key parameters included mandibular movement limitation, joint noises, and pain scores. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests, with significance set at <i>p</i> < 0.05. <i>Results</i><b>:</b> TMJ dysfunction was significantly more prevalent in patients under 25 years (Icd<sup>i</sup> = 13.5, Icd<sup>a</sup> = 11.0; <i>p</i> = 0.045), with a progressive decrease in severity in older groups (>36 years: Icd<sup>i</sup> = 3.5, Icd<sup>a</sup> = 4.5; <i>p</i> = 0.072). Women exhibited a higher prevalence across all age categories (female-to-male ratio: <25 years = 2.7, >36 years = 3.0). The most frequent symptoms were mandibular movement restriction (42.5%), joint noises (38.2%), and pain (35.7%). <i>Conclusions</i>: Impacted third molars may significantly exacerbate TMJ dysfunctions, particularly in younger individuals and females, with a strong association between impacted molars and increased Modified Helkimo Index scores. Early extraction might mitigate symptoms, emphasizing the need for proactive clinical management. |
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| ISSN: | 1010-660X 1648-9144 |