Impact of orthodontic treatment on temporomandibular joint function among adolescents: A longitudinal study

The alteration in the functionality of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) during adolescence among participants receiving fixed orthodontic treatment over the period of 12 months is of interest. The sixty participants between 12-17 years were measured at baseline, 6 months and 12 months according to the RDC/TMD criteria. There were brief episodes of augmented joint noises and tenderness at 6 months and these were enhanced by 12 months. The mandibular movement increased tremendously (p = 0.032) whereas there was no TMJ degeneration in the long-term among most patients. Thus, fixed orthodontic orthotic does not affect the health of TMJ among adolescents.