TMJ and Mandible Anatomy Quiz

The temporalis muscle is a fan-shaped muscle that originates from the temporal fossa and inserts onto the coronoid process of the mandible. Its primary function is to close the jaw and retract (pull back) the mandible.

The mandibular fossa is a shallow depression on the temporal bone that forms the upper part of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). It articulates with the condyloid process of the mandible.

The masseter muscle is a powerful muscle with two heads, superficial and deep, that attaches to the zygomatic bone and arch. It inserts onto the ramus and angle of the mandible, acting as the prime mover in jaw closure and elevation.

The articular tubercle, also known as the articular eminence, is a bony prominence on the temporal bone just anterior to the mandibular fossa. It helps guide the movement of the condyloid process during jaw movements like opening and closing.

The lateral pterygoid muscle has two heads, superior and inferior, and is responsible for protracting (moving forward), depressing, and lateral (side-to-side) movement of the mandible.

The TMJ is a synovial joint, meaning it is lined by a smooth membrane and contains lubricating fluid. It's classified as a ginglymo-arthroidal joint, allowing for both hinge (e.g., opening and closing) and gliding (e.g., moving the jaw sideways) movements.

The articular disc is a fibrous structure that divides the TMJ into two compartments. The upper compartment is responsible for gliding movements, while the lower compartment facilitates rotational movements.

The medial pterygoid muscle, with its two heads, helps to elevate and protract the mandible, as well as guide it during lateral movement.

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a synovial joint that allows for two movements: gliding (sliding) and rotational. It is most stable when the jaw is closed.

The lateral ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects the zygomatic arch (cheekbone) to the posterior neck of the mandible. Its primary function is to restrict the posterior movement of the condyloid process, preventing the jaw from dislocating backward.

When the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocates, the condyloid process of the mandible moves forward and out of the mandibular fossa, beyond the articular tubercle. This results in the jaw being locked open, unable to close.

The mental foramen is a small opening on the anterior surface of the mandible. It allows the passage of the mental nerve, a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve, which provides sensory innervation to the lower lip and chin.

The submandibular fossa is a hollow area on the medial surface of the mandible. It houses the submandibular gland, a major salivary gland that produces saliva for digestion.