To determine whether temporomandibular joint (TMJ) changes are similar between adolescent and older TMJ disorder (TMD) patients, a retrospective chart review for TMJ MRIs was done for disc and bone changes. Patients were divided into adolescent, adult and elderly groups.
Results: The groups had similar prevalence of joint changes and number of joints involved. Disc changes were more prevalent in adolescents (p = 0.008), while bone changes were more prevalent in the elderly group (p = 0.10). Anterior disc displacement was the most common finding and was most prevalent in adolescents (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Adolescents display similar disc/bone changes in their TMJ as older TMD patients.