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Structure and Function
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Temporomandibular Joint
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The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the articulation between the mandible, the articular disc, and the temporal bone of the skull (Fig. 13.1A, B). The disc divides the joint into two distinct parts, which are referred to as the upper and lower joints. The larger upper joint is formed by the convex articular eminence, concave mandibular fossa of the temporal bone, and the superior surface of the disc. The lower joint consists of the convex surface of the mandibular condyle and the concave inferior surface of the disc.1-3 The articular disc helps the convex mandible conform to the convex articular surface of the temporal bone,2 adds stability to the joint, and helps guide the mandibular condyle during motion.4
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The TMJ capsule is described as being thin and loose above the disc but taut below the disc in the lower joint. Short capsular fibers surround the joint and extend between the mandibular condyle and the articular disc and between the disc and the temporal eminence.3 Longer capsular fibers extend from the temporal bone to the mandible.
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The primary ligament associated with the TMJ is the temporomandibular ligament, which stabilizes the lateral side of joint capsule. The stylomandibular and the sphenomandibular ligaments located medial to the joint capsule (Fig. 13.2) are considered accessory ligaments.5,6 The primary muscles associated with the TMJ are the medial and lateral pterygoids, temporalis, and masseter (Fig. 13.3), as well as the digastric, stylohyoid, mylohyoid, and geniohyoid.
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The upper joint is an amphiarthrodial gliding joint, and the lower joint is a hinge joint. The TMJ as a whole allows motions in three planes around three axes. All of the motions except mouth closing begin from the resting position of the joint in which the teeth are slightly separated (freeway space).3,6 The amount of freeway space, which usually varies from 2 to 4 millimeters, allows free anterior, posterior, and lateral movement of ...