Fractured condyles and condylar resorption
Fractured condyles and condylar resorption are two distinct conditions related to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and can have significant implications for oral health.
Fractured Condyles
The condyles are the rounded ends of the lower jaw (mandible) that articulate with the skull to form the TMJ. A fractured condyle refers to a break or fracture in one or both of the condyles. This type of injury can occur due to various factors, such as trauma to the jaw, sports-related injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or falls.
Symptoms of a fractured condyle may include pain, swelling, difficulty in opening or closing the mouth, jaw misalignment, and a clicking or popping sound in the TMJ. Treatment options for fractured condyles depend on the severity and location of the fracture.
Conservative approaches, such as immobilization with a soft diet, pain management, and physical therapy, may be suitable for minor fractures. However, more severe fractures may require surgical intervention, including open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) to realign and stabilize the fractured condyle.
Condylar Resorption
Condylar resorption, also known as idiopathic condylar resorption (ICR) or progressive condylar resorption, is a condition characterized by the gradual and progressive loss of bone in the condyles of the TMJ. The exact cause of condylar resorption is unknown, and it predominantly affects young women, especially during or after orthodontic treatment.
The most common symptom of condylar resorption is the changing shape of the face and jaw, often with a noticeable decrease in the vertical height of the face. Other symptoms may include pain, joint dysfunction, difficulty in chewing, and bite changes.
The progression of condylar resorption can lead to significant facial and occlusal (bite) changes.
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