The Temporomandibular Joint in a Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient after Orthodontic Treatment

A 32-year-old Japanese female patient consulted the authors' dental clinic with a 4.5-year history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). She complained of pain during mouth opening and difficulty in eating due to masticatory dysfunction caused by an anterior open bite. Imaging showed severe erosion and flattening of both condyles. RA stabilized after pharmacological therapy and became inactive during the orthodontic therapy aimed at reconstructing an optimal occlusion capable of promoting functional repositioning of the mandible. At present, 4 years and 2 months postretention, the reconstructed occlusion remains stable, and both condyles continue to be remodeled. The distance from reference position to intercuspal position has gradually decreased throughout the 4-year posttreatment and postretention periods. Orthodontic therapy that comprehensively reconstructs occlusion and enhances the functioning of the mandible can induce remodeling of eroded condyles, even those with a history of rheumatoid arthritis.