Abstract

Functions of the stomatognathic system depend, among others, on biomechanics of temporomandibular joints. The aim of the paper is estimation of the effect of dentition on formation of selected morphometric parameters of the mandible head.

Material and methods: Material of investigations included mandibles of adult individuals (n=40) which were divided, with regard to the dentition state, into two groups. The first one contained mandibles with partial or complete dentition or with corresponding macerated alveolars (n=18). The second group comprised edentulous mandibles or those with the presence of one to four alveolars (n=22). Direct measurement methods were used. Values of long and short axes of the mandidle head were calculated.

Results: In the first examined group, mean values of long axis measurements of the mandible head were higher than compared with the second one. In both groups measurements of short axes were similar. On the right and left side, values of those parameters in the two groups showed no differences.

Conclusions: On the basis of the present results it is to be concluded that morphological parameters of the mandible head are a changeable element of functional anatomy of the stomatognathic system. Formation of the mandibular head surfaces should be considered in the etiopathogenic complex of stomatognathic system dysfunctions. In differentiation of therapeutic and/or rehabilitation methods in posttraumatic syndromes of temporomandibular joints as well as in dysfunctional states of the stomatognathic system one should take into consideration morphological changeability of the joint heads.