Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Abstract These three web-based animations were developed in Macromedia Flash to model the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in both health and disease. The objective of this resource is to simulate normal joint function and dysfunction from anterior articular disc displacement with and without reduction. These pathologies can elicit clicking, limited range-of-motion, and/or pain during condylar (head) rotation and translation. The first animation simulates normal anatomical relations during condylar rotation and translation, while the second and third simulate these movements during anterior articular disc displacement with, and without, reduction. The animations are user friendly and achieve both a dimension, and level of detail, that cannot be attained using conventional textbooks. They can be used to complement didactic and practical (i.e., dissection) activities of beginner health care professionals enrolled in human structure courses, as review for clinical certification and licensure examinations, or for patients conferring with practitioners about their own TMJ disorders. A User's Guide is provided to assist with accessing and utilizing the content.

Keywords

• TMJ
• Temporomandibular Joint
• Condylar Rotation
• Anterior Disc Displacement