Abstract: PURPOSE: To investigate the occurrence of postoperative malocclusion of patients with temporomandibular joint disc repositioning and the necessity of postoperative orthodontic treatment. METHODS: One hundred and eight patients who received temporomandibular joint disc repositioning from 2010.10 to 2015.10 were selected in this study. The patients' occlusion was recorded preoperatively and postoperatively. All patients received functional appliance or orthodontic treatment after surgery. The occlusion and the relative position of the articular disc and condyle were evaluated at regular follow-up. RESULTS: Postoperative malocclusion occurred in all patients. The use of functional appliance for 3-6 months may decrease the proportion of malocclusion. After orthodontic treatment, all patients had a complete recovery of malocclusion and remained good articular disc and condyle relationship during long term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperatively malocclusion may occur after temporomandibular joint disc repositioning, and the use of functional appliance and orthodontic treatment are strongly recommended to retain good articular disc and condyle relationship.

Key words: Temporomandibular joint, Anterior disc displacement, Disc repositioning, Orthodontic treatment