RADIOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF ASYMMETRY OF THE MANDIBLE

PURPOSE: To assess the relationship between mandibular asymmetry and d isorders of the temporomandibular joint. METHODS: We used advanced ima ging of the temporomandibular joint to distinguish different causes of mandibular asymmetry. MR imaging and arthrography were applied to the temporomandibular joints of 11 patients presenting with mandibular as ymmetry. RESULTS: Condyle hyperplasia was identified as the cause of t he asymmetry in 5 patients. In the other 6 patients the mandibular con dyle was normal on the long side, but the short side of the face demon strated a small condyle head, short condyle neck associated with disk displacement, internal derangement, and degenerative joint disease of the temporomandibular joint. CONCLUSIONS: These observations suggest t hat both condyle hyperplasia on the long side of the mandible and disk displacement and degenerative joint disease of the temporomandibular joint on the short side can cause mandibular asymmetry. It was conclud ed that MR imaging or arthrography can be valuable for understanding t he cause of mandibular asymmetry and be effective in treatment plannin g.