Evaluation of the influence of mandibular condylar contour, height, and asymmetry in subjects with myalgia presenting with or without clicking among south coastal Karnataka population – A descriptive cross-sectional study

AIM: The purpose was to evaluate the morphological variations of the condyle in patients presenting with myalgia associated with and without clicking of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and its possible effect on the contour and height. SETTING AND DESIGN: Cross sectional study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 60 patients comprising of 20 patients with myalgia, 20 patients with myalgia associated with clicking of TMJ, and a control group of 20 patients without any signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder were selected for purpose of the study. Using a digital panoramic radiograph, the contour of the condyle was evaluated for shape, condylar height (CH), and condylar asymmetry. STATISTICAL ANALYSES USED: Chi-square test, One- way ANOVA. RESULTS: Rounded contour of the condyle was the most prevalent shape of the condyle amongst the three groups. There was a significant decrease in mean right and left CH in subjects with myalgia (0.71 cm and 0.73 cm) and subjects with myalgia associated with clicking (0.65 cm and 0.62 cm) compared to control group subjects. There was also an increase in the mean asymmetry index in subjects with myalgia presenting with clicking (2.362 ± 1.4) and without clicking (1.388 ± 2.1) (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of the current study, round contour of the condyle is the most common variant. Subjects with myalgia showed a significant reduction in condyle height. Condyle contour, height, and asymmetry may not predispose the joint for clicking.