Osteometry of mandibular joint surface.

Anatomically and functionally, temporomandibular joint (articulatio temporomandibularis) is specific, It consists of incongruent joint surface. The size of mandibular joint surface and its position in relation to facies articularis fossae mandibularis in different positions of mandibulae (central occlusion, central relation) are still subject to the interest of prosthetics. The aim of the research is measuring the lower joint surface by special 3D device that enables acribic precise measuring. Macerated human skulls, property of the Anatomy Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University Sarajevo, were used for the research that has been carried out. Results of measuring of articulating surface caput mandibulae along longer axis (mediolateral diameter) indicate that there are no differences in size of this surface between right and left joints. Results of measuring of articulating surface caput mandibulae along shorter axis (anteroposterior diameter) indicate differences in values of this diameter between right and left sides. Judging by statistical evaluation, differences are highly significant on the level of probability p<0.01. The research has shown differences in the size of this joint surface, on right and left sides, but only in antero-posterior direction. This original scientific work will help better of relationship of TMJ surfaces, what is necessary for treatment of TMD and occlusal imbalances.