Temporomandibular joint ankylosis

Abstract

Trauma to the chin is the most common cause of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis along with other causes which include infections and inflammatory destruction of the synovial lining of the joint. Inflammation of the joint may be primary resulting from infection of the joint itself or may result from extension of neighboring infection. The clinical features of ankylosis are limited mouth opening, with no pain and joint sounds, and marked deflection of the mandible to the affected side. This article highlights the clinical and radiographic features of TMJ bony ankylosis.