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Updated: Jul 14, 2026
07:26
Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Temporomandibular joint soft-tissue pathology, I: Disc abnormalities
Francesco Molinari1, Paolo Francesco Manicone, Luca Raffaelli
1Department of Bioimaging and Radiological Sciences, Catholic University of Rome, Italy. fmolinari@rm.unicatt.it
Seminars in Ultrasound, CT, and MR
|June 19, 2007
Summary
Internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc are common and often asymptomatic due to the joint
Area of Science:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Biomechanical analysis of the temporomandibular joint
Background:
- Internal derangements of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc are the most frequent noninflammatory abnormalities.
- These conditions are often observed even in asymptomatic individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the adaptive mechanisms of the TMJ in response to disc dysfunction.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical evaluation and imaging in differentiating asymptomatic derangements from painful conditions.
Main Methods:
- Clinical evaluation of temporomandibular joint disorders.
- Diagnostic imaging interpretation for TMJ abnormalities.
Main Results:
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction may remain asymptomatic for extended periods due to significant adaptive and compensatory responses.
- Distinguishing between asymptomatic internal derangements and symptomatic conditions is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Internal derangements of the TMJ disc are prevalent and can be asymptomatic.
- A thorough clinical assessment combined with imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
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