Orthodontic diagnosis and management of TMJ – A case report

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems can be challenging and cause a myriad of complaints.The orthodontist can play a crucial role in identification and resolution of the same. The management through orthodontic treatment aims not merely at ideal positioning of the teeth but also ensuring synchrony between the condylar position and occlusion, often helping in re-establishing the lost equilibrium of the joint and muscles, often associated with malocclusion. This case report puts forth the diagnosis and orthodontic management of TMJ aberrations, wherein silent signs are manifested in the dentition. The case report, further, aims to provide insight on bridging the gap in treating minor TMJ aberrations by treating the probable root cause – malocclusion. A 20-year-old female patient presented with attrition of the lower incisors and deflection of the mandible on maximum mouth opening, suggestive of silent signs of temporomandibular disorder. Cone-beam computed tomography evaluation revealed erosion of the condylar head bilaterally.