A Preliminary Novel CBCT-Based Staging System for Temporo-Mandibular Joint Disorders-A Systematic Review

Background and Objectives: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are heterogeneous conditions that may involve structural alterations of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Although cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) enables detailed assessment of osseous structures, existing classifications mainly address clinical diagnosis, internal derangement, or isolated imaging findings. This review aimed to identify recurrent TMJ osseous changes and develop a practical CBCT-based staging system. Materials and Methods: The review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched, supplemented by citation and grey-literature searches. Methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, Joanna Briggs Institute tools, and AMSTAR 2, while evidence certainty was evaluated using GRADE. Recurrent imaging findings, clinical correlations, prognostic implications, and therapeutic perspectives were synthesized to develop the proposed scale.