[Orthodontic approach to temporomandibular arthrosis. A case report of medial displacement of the articular disk].

Abstract

This clinical report presents orthodontic applications of double contrast arthrotomography and arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint. We examined a case of mandibular shift with stomatognathic dysfunction using these techniques, and found medial displacement of the articular disk. Generally, displacement of the articular disk is examined only from sagittal section. However, this case indicates that frontal section of double contrast arthrotomography is necessary for the three dimensional understanding of the TMJ. Mandibular position with disk reduction was obtained by double contrast arthrogram, and medial displacement of the disk and malocclusion were treated by dynamic positioner. It is suggested that orthodontic treatment is an effective method both for treatment of internal derangement of the TMJ and also for the final reconstruction of occlusion.