INTRODUCTION: It is known that there is a relationship between the Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) and craniocervical posture, but, besides the studies showed inconclusive results, the severity of signs and symptoms of TMD is not considered. OBJECTIVE: To correlate the severity of TMD index to craniocervical cephalometric measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-two women, from 19 to 35 years old with a diagnosis of TMD (RDC/TMD), took part in the study. The severity of signs and symptoms of TMD was assessed by the Temoromandibular Index proposed by Pehling and calculated according to the physical examination findings of the RDC/TMD (Axis I). The craniocervical posture was evaluated by cephalometry through 11 measures related to the head, cervical spine, jaw and the hyoid bone position. Data normality was tested by Lilliefors test and correlations were performed by Spearman coefficient. RESULTS: Moderate negative correlation was found between the CVT/Hor angle and Muscular (p = 0.0288) and Temporomandibular (p = 0.0394) Indices; between the CPL/Hor angle (anterior) when correlated with Functional (p = 0.0482) and Muscle indices (p = 0.0086) and between distance from the hyoid to the third cervical vertebra (Hy/C3) and Functional Index (p = 0.0155). CONCLUSIONS: There was an association between greater severity of clinical symptoms of TMD and a more forward head posture, the lower cervical spine flexion and a smaller distance from hyoid bone to the third cervical vertebra. This relationship suggests that the craniocervical postural changes may contribute to a greater intensity of signs and symptoms and the perpetuation of TMD.
Temporomandibular joint disorders; Posture; Cephalometry
