ABSTRACT
Normal anatomy and function The craniomandibular articulation is complex because it involves two separate synovial joints, which must function in unison. A fibrous capsule defines the anatomical and functional boundaries of the joint. Medially and laterally, the capsule is firm, to stabilize the mandible during movement. The medial capsule is not as strong as the lateral capsule, which is reinforced by the lateral (temporomandibular) ligament (Figs 1.1, 1.2). Anteriorly and posteriorly, the
capsule is loose, to allow mandibular movement. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is supported by two accessory ligaments to protect the joint during wide excursions: the stylomandibular ligament that runs from the tip of the styloid process to the angle and posterior border of the mandible, and the sphenomandibular ligament that runs from the greater wing of the sphenoid bone to the lingula of the mandibular ramus (Fig. 1.3). The sphenomandibular ligament attaches separately from the medial capsule.13
