Mastication - LO 5

5. What are temporomandibular disorders (TMD)? What occurs with dislocation of the jaw (subluxation of the temporomandibular joint)?

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a general term for a pathology related to the temporomandibular joint, including muscles of mastication, ligaments, bone, articular disc, and neurovasculature. Possible causes of TMD are disease, arthritis, occlusal changes, and muscle spasms, among others. Crepitus (clicking) is a common complaint associated with TMD.

Dislocations of the jaw (subluxation of the TMJ) typically occurs in an anterior direction - the mandibular condyle moves anterior to or onto the articular tubercle of the temporal bone. Dislocations can occur in traumatic blows to the side of the jaw or due to weakening of protective structures of the TMJ, such as ligaments, articular capsule, etc. In these cases, simple actions, such as yawning or opening the mouth wide while eating, can cause dislocation.