Temporomandibular Joint Anatomy

Questions and Answers

What is the name of the structure that surrounds the temporomandibular joint?

Articular tubercle

Retrodiscal tissue

Meniscus

Capsule (correct)

Where is the capsule of the temporomandibular joint attached superiorly?

Meniscus

Articular tubercle and margins of the mandibular fossa (correct)

Neck of the mandible

Retrodiscal tissue

What is the purpose of the meniscus in the temporomandibular joint?

To act as a shock absorber and distribute forces (correct)

To provide lubrication for the joint

To connect the capsule to the mandible

To provide a pathway for nerves and blood vessels

Which of the following structures is NOT a component of the temporomandibular joint?

Ligament Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the retrodiscal tissue in the temporomandibular joint?

To provide vascularization and innervation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following imaging modalities is used to visualize the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in both the closed- and open-mouth positions?

CT Signup and view all the answers

What type of anatomical structures are depicted in the images labeled A–D?

Bones and soft tissues Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the temporomandibular joint?

Allowing for movement of the jaw Signup and view all the answers

What type of nerve provides innervation to the temporomandibular joint?

Trigeminal nerve Signup and view all the answers

What does the letter 'E' in the content represent?

Innervation of the TMJ Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the muscles shown in (C)?

To aid in the movement of the mandible during mastication Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the movement of the mandible when opening the mouth?

Translation downward and forward Signup and view all the answers

What can be inferred about the temporomandibular joint from the diagram?

It is a gliding joint that allows for movement in multiple planes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following muscles is NOT shown in diagram (C)?

Digastric Signup and view all the answers

What is the direction of the force exerted by the muscles of mastication on the mandible?

Downward and forward Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the lateral temporomandibular ligament?

To prevent the head of the mandible from passing backward and fracturing the tympanic plate Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if a severe blow falls on the chin in the absence of a strong lateral temporomandibular ligament?

The head of the mandible would pass backward and fracture the tympanic plate Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of the lateral temporomandibular ligament's strength?

It protects the tympanic plate from fracture Signup and view all the answers

During what type of event might the lateral temporomandibular ligament be particularly important?

During a severe blow to the chin Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of the lateral temporomandibular ligament's strength in the context of a severe blow to the chin?

It prevents the head of the mandible from moving backward and fracturing the tympanic plate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary obstacle to posterior dislocation of the joint?

The post glenoid tubercle Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the post glenoid tubercle in relation to joint dislocation?

It resists posterior dislocation Signup and view all the answers

What is responsible for resisting posterior dislocation of the joint, in addition to the post glenoid tubercle?

The strong intrinsic lateral ligament Signup and view all the answers

Posterior dislocation of the joint is:

An uncommon event Signup and view all the answers

What two structures work together to resist posterior dislocation of the joint?

Post glenoid tubercle and strong intrinsic lateral ligament Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The TMJ Capsule

Surrounds the joint and attaches to the articular tubercle and margins of the mandibular fossa above
Attaches to the neck of the mandible below

TMJ Anatomy

Consists of the temporomandibular joint, meniscus, and retrodiscal tissue
Has a lateral temporomandibular ligament that prevents posterior dislocation of the mandible

TMJ Function

Allows for opening and closing of the mouth (shown in A and B anatomical and CT images)
Muscles of mastication attach to the mandible and have specific directions of action (shown in C)

TMJ Safety Features

Post glenoid tubercle resists posterior dislocation of the mandible
Strong intrinsic lateral ligament prevents posterior dislocation of the mandible and fracture of the tympanic plate

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Learn about the structure of the temporomandibular joint, including the meniscus, retrodiscal tissue, and joint capsule. Understand their attachments and functions.