Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

Joe Muscolino

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    • The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located between the temporal bone and the mandible.
      • More specifically, it is located between the mandibular fossa of the temporal bone and the condyle of the mandible.
    • The TMJ is a synovial, modified hinge, uniaxial joint.
    • The TMJ allows:
      • Elevation/Depression in the sagittal plane
      • Protraction/Retraction (nonaxial)
      • Left lateral deviation / Right lateral deviation (nonaxial)

     

    NOTES:

    1. There is a fibrocartilaginous disc located within the TMJ that divides it into two separate cavities: superior and inferior.
    2. When there is pain and/or dysfunction at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), it is referred to as TMJ Syndrome.

     

    Right lateral view of the bones of the skull; the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is demonstrated.

    Right lateral view of the bones of the skull; the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is demonstrated.