Prosthodontic and surgical management of a patient with an osteoma of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

Osteomas of the temporomandibular joint are rare. This article presents a case report delineating treatment of a partially edentulous patient using a team approach for an osteoma originating from the anterolateral aspect of the glenoid. The tumor was diagnosed with the aid of a panoramic radiograph and a computerized axial tomograph. Interim prostheses with anterior teeth and posterior teeth with nonanatomic occlusal surfaces were fabricated before surgery. After surgical excision of the osteoma, the interim prostheses were periodically adjusted as the mandibular condyle gradually shifted into the space that was previously occupied by the tumor. Final removable prostheses were fabricated after the condyle had stopped shifting.