Anatomy of the Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

With its unique anatomic features, the temporomandibular joint is one of the specific joints in the body. The temporomandibular joint is one of the strongest joints in the body, with its particular competence in various movements, affected by many vectoral forces acting on it and closely related to dental arches and occlusion. As temporomandibular joints of each side function together, any discrepancy affecting any part of this musculoskeletal integrity generally affects both sides, eventually leading to temporomandibular disorders. So when dealing with temporomandibular joint, any clinician must keep in mind that this joint is actually a part of a musculoskeletal system comprised of the joint itself with bony and cartilaginous structures, dental arches and occlusion, and masticatory muscles with some other muscles in the head and neck region. Knowledge about the anatomical features of the temporomandibular joint and related structures that constitute this musculoskeletal integrity is crucial to all clinicians dealing with this joint in understanding the underlying causes of many disorders of the temporomandibular joint.