The Temporomandibular Joint: Form and Function

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint for which an understanding of its form and function is imperative for insight into how the joint functions as well as to evaluate related disorders. The TMJ develops later in embryonic development and, unlike most other joints of the body, it originates from secondary cartilage. While having both growth and articular functions, it changes histologically over time to better withstand the various forces it is subjected to during processes such as mastication. There are both hard and soft tissue components of the TMJ, each of which plays a contributory role in the form and function of the joint. The TMJ, like other joints of the body, can be affected by a wide variety of diseases and disorders. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a wide range of problems including those characterized by chronic pain, inflammation, and oftentimes dysfunction of the TMJ. To understand the etiology and pathophysiology of associated disease states, and for the development of successful and lasting treatment plans for TMD, a thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the joint is a must.