Occlusal interferences in retruded contact position and temporomandibular joint sounds

summary In 193 non‐patient adolescents, unilateral contacts in retruded contact position (RCP) were seen more often in girls than in boys (P < 0.001) and were more frequent in subjects with than without general joint instability (P < 0.05). A negative correlation (r=−0.70***) was found between the side of the temporomandibular joint sound and the side of unilateral contact in RCP. Boys with unilateral contacts in RCP had more non‐reciprocal clicking than girls. No signs were found indicating that a unilateral contact in RCP is an aetiological factor for development of temporomandibular disorders. Unilateral contacts in RCP may in adolescents be considered a predictive factor for temporomandibular joint disturbance. Contradictory causes may determine the sagittal distance between RCP and ICP.