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Anatomy and Pathophysiology of the Temporomandibular Joint

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Peterson’s Principles of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Abstract

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint with many functions essential to living. Its many intra-articular components function intricately with several extra-articular structures to perform various complex movements. Abnormalities in any of the numerous components of the TMJ apparatus can lead to disruption of the physiology of the joint. A thorough understanding of the anatomy and pathophysiology of diseases and disorders of the TMJ is essential in properly diagnosis and management. This chapter reviews the anatomy of the TMJ and associated structures, as well as classification and pathophysiology of temporomandibular disorders, with a focus on intra-articular pathology.

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Han, M.D., Lieblich, S.E. (2022). Anatomy and Pathophysiology of the Temporomandibular Joint. In: Miloro, M., Ghali, G.E., Larsen, P.E., Waite, P. (eds) Peterson’s Principles of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-91920-7_51

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