Assessment of Temporomandibular Joint Region Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Study

Dr. Lata Kale, Dr. Smita Khandare, Dr. Maheshwar Alane, Dr. Humera Shaikh

Abstract: Background: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has become an indispensable imaging modality in dental and maxillofacial diagnostics due to its three-dimensional visualization and high diagnostic accuracy. The increasing use of CBCT has led to the detection of incidental findings (IFs), particularly in regions not directly related to the primary diagnostic purpose. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region, owing to its complex anatomy, is frequently included in large field-of-view CBCT scans, making it susceptible to incidental detection of osseous and soft tissue alterations. Aim: To assess the prevalence and pattern of incidental findings in the temporomandibular joint region using cone beam computed tomography. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 350 CBCT scans obtained for diagnostic purposes unrelated to TMJ evaluation. Scans with a full field of view including both maxilla and mandible were included. The images were evaluated in corrected sagittal, coronal, and axial planes for TMJ incidental findings. Findings were categorized into flattening and erosion of the condyle, osteophyte formation, condylar hyperplasia, condylar hypoplasia, bifid condyle, and soft tissue calcifications. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0. Results: Incidental findings were observed in a significant number of CBCT scans. Flattening and erosion of the condyle were the most frequently encountered findings, followed by osteophyte formation and soft tissue calcifications. A statistically significant association was observed between incidental findings and increasing age (p < 0.05). No significant gender predilection was noted. Conclusion: CBCT is a valuable imaging modality for the detection of incidental findings in the TMJ region. Proper evaluation of the TMJ area in routine CBCT scans is essential, as these findings may influence treatment planning and necessitate referral or modification of dental procedures.

Keywords: Cone beam computed tomography, Incidental findings, Temporomandibular joint, Condylar changes, Retrospective study

How to Cite?: Dr. Lata Kale, Dr. Smita Khandare, Dr. Maheshwar Alane, Dr. Humera Shaikh, "Assessment of Temporomandibular Joint Region Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Study", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1958-1961, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251223192404, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251223192404