ABSTRACT
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a bilateral diarthrodial, ginglymoid synovial joint, which is independently freely mobile. Diarthrodial means there are two articulating bone components, and ginglymoid means hinge-like. The TMJ is also unique in that between the two joints lie the articulating surfaces of the teeth, such that minor changes in joint structure can lead to changes which are reflected in changes of occlusion; however, there is no conclusive evidence that the reverse is true.
