Genetic Consideration of the Relationship Between Determinants of Occlusal Morphology, the Articular Eminence and Internal Derangement of the Temporomandibular Joint

Introduction: The articular eminence and condyle-fossa relationship reflects a secondary growth site and the morphology appears to be influenced by determinants of occlusal morphology which are subject to genetic variation of dentoalveolar bone metabolism. The Hypothesis: the articular eminence of the TMJ inclination is a function of sagittal, vertical and transverse determinants of occlusal morphology and therefore it may be possible to influence modeling of the articular eminence with orthodontic treatment at least in a transient way. Evaluation of the Hypothesis: The morphology of the articular eminence, dentoalveolar bone remodeling rates associated with IL-Beta and determinants of occlusal morphology are considered with respect to the etiology of articular disc displacement and internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint.