A Plastic Surgeon’s Guide to the Temporomandibular Joint: Part I, Anatomy

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a critical articulation between the mandible and cranium. unique anatomy allows for multifaceted motion unlike any other in human body. bi-convex curvature of bony prominences facilitates compound hinging sliding movement, which are driven by muscles mastication constrained various ligamentous connections surrounding joint. Proper alignment function these structures essential to ensure relationship mandibular maxillary dental arches fluid during mastication. While versatile form TMJ allow coordinated jaw movements, pathologic conditions can lead dysfunction pain. Therefore, understanding associated pathophysiology plastic surgeon who manages craniomaxillofacial trauma disorders. present manuscript first 3-part series with an overview anatomy. Subsequent sections will address pathology treatment