Evaluation of certain dentofacial characteristics as predisposing factors in patients with myofacial pain dysfunction syndrome.

Though a multifactorial etiology has been comprehensively documented in the literature over the years for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, none of the theories give a total explanation of all aspects of the syndrome. The aim of this study was to evaluate face form and certain occlusal parameters as relevant factors in the degree of dysfunction of the Temporomandibular joint. One hundred and three patients suffering from TMJ dysfunction attending the Out Patient Department of Dr R. Ahmed Dental College over a period of 2 years were clinically examined and subsequently tabulated and compared with the degree of dysfunction to analyze any correlation between them. The data were statistically analyzed by the student t test and χ(2) test to assess the significance of the dysfunction in relation to the various parameters examined. The study indicated a positive relationship between the degree of dysfunction of the TMJ to the face form and certain other attributes.