Association Between Temporomandibular Joint Disorders and Cervical Spine Parameters

The craniocervical mandibular system includes the temporomandibular joint, the atlanto-occipital joint, the hyoid bone, the masticatory muscles, and any muscle or ligament connecting the head to the neck. Because of the functional unit structure of the system and its biomechanical interaction, scientists are examining whether temporomandibular joint disorders are associated with changes in cervical spine parameters. To compensate for pathological changes in this system, it is necessary to adjust the position of the hyoid bone, neck posture, and head. This study aims to evaluate whether there is an association between temporomandibular joint disorders and cervical spine parameters. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study that included 24 patients aged 25–65 years with temporomandibular joint disorders diagnosed by an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon. Each patient underwent cervical radiographs in two projections, and we assessed cervical parameters. Joint arthritis, malocclusions, tooth loss, congenital asymmetry, and trauma were the main causes of temporomandibular joint disorders in our cases. Regardless of the cause, all of them had at least one change in cervical spine parameters. Cervical tilting, C2–C7 cervical lordosis (CL), and C2–C7 sagittal vertical alignment (C2–C7 SVA) were the cervical parameters that experienced the biggest changes. A forward head position, cervical lordosis loss, and scoliosis were common observations. Temporomandibular joint disorders were associated with cervical spine parameter changes in all cases. Cervical tilting, C2–C7 cervical lordosis, and C2–C7 SVA were the cervical parameters that experienced the most changes.