Abstract
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc provides a large load bearing capacity over the entire motion range of the human jaw joint. It is made out of fibrocartilage, with a markedly antero-posterior orientation of the collagen fibers [Tanaka, 2003]. This indicates that this structure is able to restrain tension in this direction better than in other directions. Biomechanical analyses have indicated that the TMJ disc is loaded predominantly with shear [Koolstra, 2005]. The present aim was to study this discrepancy by analysis of the magnitude and orientation of the tensile stresses in the disc during habitual function. The TMJ disc is connected to the superior lateral pterygoid muscle. The activity of this muscle could be of influence on tensions occurring in the disc. Moreover, it has been suggested that dysfunction of this muscle may lead to symptomatic anterior disc displacements [Tanaka, 2007]. Therefore, tensile stress was analyzed with and without the presence of this connection.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
