Need for changes in concepts relating to the temporomandibular joint and the mandibular articulation

Abstract

There is a great need for changes in concept, practice, theory, and management of mandibular articulation problems. The disciplines involved know no specialty boundary. The importance of recognizing that the primary articulation of the mandible, for clinical purposes, consists of more than the temporomandibular joint, was emphasized. A knowledge of the range of movement of the condyle has been shown to be extremely important. The condyle can move anterior to the crest of the articulating eminence, and this is normal. The importance of using a standard diagnostic technique for statistics and in comparative practice was emphasized. The involvement of the temporomandibular joint with problems of arthritis was presented. Protein chemistry was mentioned to emphasize the importance of macromolecular chemistry in the clinical management of mandibular articulation problems. The role of the interarticular tissue in the normal physiologic movement within the temporomandibular joint was described. The resting relation of the condyle, meniscus, and mandibular fossa which is important in the diagnosis and in treatment of mandibular articulation problems was discussed. The diagnosis and management of these problems must start at the mandibular articulation. The ability of the forces operating on the mandible to displace the condyle inferiorly was demonstrated and discussed. The importance of using basic knowledge in treatment measures was emphasized. The cause of the clicking noise in the temporomandibular joint was described.