Anterior Displacement of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
This animation displays the normal function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and an anterior displacement of the TMJ. The TMJ normally acts as a sliding hinge that connects the mandible (jaw) and the temporal bone (skull). When the mouth opens, the head of the mandible and the articular disc glide forward in which a cushion between the bones is maintained. When the articular disc has been displaced forward there is no cushion between the head of the mandible and the mandibular fossa, causing the retrodiscal tissue to be pinched and a popping or clicking sound to occur when the jaw is fully opened.
