Temporomandibular Joint: Structure, Function and Clinical Significance

The Temporomandibular Joint: Structure, Function and Clinical Significance extensively describes the temporomandibular joint and its components, with a focus on anatomy and physiology, for an essential comprehensive view of the overall structure. A systematization of temporomandibular joint pathology in edentulous patients is provided, considering the clinical perspective. The authors also propose a protocol for the use of diagnostic methods and a treatment, taking into consideration both the pathological changes of the joint and age-related physiological changes. This compilation also explores bruxism, a parafunctional habit which is characterized by an abnormal clenching or grinding of the teeth, either while awake or during sleep. Bruxism is known to play a significant role in temporomandibular disorders. A focus on the biomechanics of the temporomandibular joint is provided. It is classified as ginglymoarthrodial joint or condyloid or ball and socket type of joint that forms between the condylar process of the mandibular bone and the glenoid fossa at the squamous part of the temporal bone at the base of skull. The temporomandibular joint is a specialized unit that performs multiple vital functions. The integrity and relationships of the hard and soft tissues structures of temporomandibular joint is essential for its normal functioning. In conclusion, the authors review and discuss the three dimensional anatomy of the temporomandibular joint by using cone beam computed tomography and MRI as well as the possible pitfalls in the interpretation of these two imaging modalities in normal and pathological conditions.