Evaluating the morphology of condyle using panoramic radiography among the population of North Karnataka: A retrospective study

Aim and Objective: The aim of this study is to pinpoint the different changes in the condylar morphology among males and females as they act as an important feature in the field of forensic.Background/Introduction: The Panoramic Radiograph is one of the most common radiographs used by dentist, to analyse many structures in the head and neck region. Mandibular condyle is the most common and important landmarks changes due to multiple factors. Panoramic radiographs remain as one of the best screening modalities for temporomandibular joint changes and the abnormalities. Materials and Methods: Panoramic Radiographs will be used to evaluate the shape of the condyles. Two oral and maxillofacial radiologists will assess the radiographs later they will be recorded.Results: A total of 527 OPG’s were taken with the age was about 5 years to 79 years, the wide age range will help in obtaining proper result among the different age group and also to understand the changes that we observe among the gender. The mean age range was about 32.1 years. A total of 51% females and 48% males respectively. The oval shape is the most common type seen in both right and left side with 60.3% and 58.1 % respectivelyConclusion: Minimum radio exposure, ease of obtaining OPG and less expertise for the technician makes it the most easy and simple choice of imaging. Evaluating the condyle in OPG is one important observation that we see most commonly. Oval-oval is most common among males and females. Examining other parameters might give additional information about the individual and provide evidence in further studies in the field of research as well as forensics.