Joint space measurement in centric occlusion between panoramic temporomandibular joint radiography and cone-beam computed tomography: a comparison in patients with clicking disorders

Introduction: Patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) commonly experience clicking. Measuring the joint space between the condyle and glenoid fossa can assist a dentist in determining potential cause of this pathological anomaly. Initial examination of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osseous structure can be performed with panoramic temporomandibular joint radiography (PanTMJ) that has a lower radiation and cost than conebeam computed tomography (CBCT). Objectives: The aim of this study was to quantitatively assess the difference in joint space measurement between PanTMJ and CBCT among patients with clicking in centric occlusion. Material and methods: The study included thirty-four patients diagnosed with clicking in at least one of the TMJs. Patients underwent PanTMJ and CBCT in centric occlusion position, following clinical examination. Anterior joint space (AJS), superior joint space (SJS), and posterior joint space (PJS) were measured. Mann-Whitney test was applied to examine differences between PanT