Comparison of occlusal dental wear and degenerative alterations of the temporomandibular joint in two medieval populations from Central Europe

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease commonly identified in archaeological human remains. This condition primarily affects stress-bearing joints, which include the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). Comparing dental status and degenerative alterations of the TMJs of individuals is crucial for understanding the role of the former in increasing predisposition to temporomandibular OA. The combination of visual and radiologic observations allows for a more in-depth assessment of TMJ-OA in archaeological specimens. A comparative study between tooth wear and the extent of degenerative signs on mandibular condylar surfaces was conducted on individuals from two medieval cemeteries in central Europe (Früebergstrasse in Baar and Dalheim). OA, tooth wear, and AMTL were evaluated in 41 individuals comprising both adult specimens as well as those of a more advanced age. Condylar OA was diagnosed in 14 individuals (Baar, n = 7; Dalheim, n = 7). No specific sex predisposition for OA in TMJs was found in the study's sample. Tooth wear was more severe in individuals with condyles affected by OA than in individuals whose condyles showed no degenerative signs. Although dental occlusion could not be evaluated, tooth wear values seem to point to diverse mastication patterns when there is unilateral or bilateral manifestation of mandibular OA in the two medieval populations under study.