Alloplastic temporomandibular joint replacement: historical perspective and future objectives

Alloplastic temporomandibular joint (TMJ) replacement (TMJR) is a viable treatment option for endstage TMJ disorders unresponsive to conservative management options, as well as for reconstruction of congenital or acquired TMJ defects. The authors provide a historical perspective of TMJR development and provide suggested future considerations to assure that the reported successful clinical outcomes continue as new and improved devices come to market.