Comparative Evaluation and Correlation of Hyoid Bone Position, Airway Dimension, and Psychological Status in Class II Vertical and Horizontal Malocclusion Cases With Temporomandibular Disorder Compared to Class I Non-Temporomandibular Disorder Cases.

Introduction Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) involves discomfort and impaired function in the masticatory muscles and temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with a multifaceted etiology that includes biomechanical, neuromuscular, psychological, and biological factors. This research aims to assess and correlate the hyoid bone position, airway dimensions, and psychological status in class II Hz (horizontal) and Vt (vertical) malocclusion cases with TMD in contrast to non-TMD class I cases. Methodology This research was carried out at the Orthodontics Department, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Sawangi, with consent obtained from the ethical committee. A total of 63 adult patients with class I, class II horizontal, and class II vertical malocclusions were selected. TMD was diagnosed using the Helkimo index, and patients were categorized accordingly. Psychological status was evaluated using the Warwick-Edinburgh scale, while the placement of hyoid bone and airway dimensions were assessed using lateral cephalograms. Statistical analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS version 27.0, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results The research showed a noteworthy difference in the hyoid bone's location, airway dimensions, and psychological status among the three groups. Class II TMD patients (both vertical and horizontal) exhibited higher hyoid bone positions and larger Go-Hy-Me angles (angle formed by the gonion-hyoid line and the hyoid-menton line) compared to class I patients. In addition, class II vertical TMD patients showed the most reduced airway dimensions. Psychological assessments indicated higher stress, anxiety, and depression levels in class II TMD patients, particularly in the vertical group, compared to class I non-TMD patients. Conclusion This study highlights the intricate relationships between hyoid bone position, airway dimensions, and psychological status in TMD patients. TMD patients present with hyoid bones positioned closer to the cranium and mandible, larger Go-Hy-Me angles, and reduced airway dimensions. Psychological distress exacerbates TMD symptoms, negatively impacting overall well-being and quality of life. Orthodontists should consider these interrelated factors when devising treatment plans to improve patient outcomes. Future longitudinal studies with larger samples and advanced imaging techniques are recommended to further elucidate these interactions.