ANATOMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT IN CLINICAL PRACTICE
Abstract
The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the human body, connecting the mandible with the temporal bone of the skull. It plays an essential role in chewing, speaking, swallowing, and facial movements. The anatomical structure of the temporomandibular joint includes the mandibular condyle, mandibular fossa, articular disc, joint capsule, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. The aim of this article is to analyze the anatomical and functional characteristics of the temporomandibular joint and evaluate its clinical importance. The findings show that structural and functional disturbances of this joint may lead to pain, limited mouth opening, clicking sounds, chewing difficulties, and temporomandibular disorders. Understanding the anatomy and biomechanics of the temporomandibular joint is important for dentistry, maxillofacial surgery, neurology, anatomy, and rehabilitation.