Articular Eminence Inclination between Croatian and American Skulls.

Objectives: To determine and compare articular eminence inclination (AEI) values between Croatian and American skulls. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on 210 human dry skulls divided into Croatian (early medieval, late medieval and contemporary), and American (Illinois, Kentucky, contemporary African Americans and American Caucasians) groups. AEI was measured by two methods (M1 and M2) on 5 sagittal sections through virtual silicone impressions of articular eminence. The obtained results were analyzed at the significance level of p<0.05. Results: No statistically significant differences of AEI values were obtained with regard to the group of skulls, body side, sex and age (p>0.05). AEI M2 values were statistically significantly higher than AEI M1 values (p<0.05). Conclusions: Comparing the AEI values between different group of skulls can reveal insights into TMJ morphology, and can also shed light on possible evolutionary adaptations, dietary influences, and genetic diversity across cultures. According to the results of this study, AEI values were not affected by group of skulls, body side, sex and age or at least not as much as needed for significant changes. However, a measurement method significantly influences AEI values, with higher AEI M2 values compared to AEI M1 values.