The human temporo-mandibular joint: current anatomic and physiologic status.

The aim of this study was to take stock of current anatomic and physiologic knowledge of the human temporo-mandibular joint. Though the lateral pterygoid m. plays an essential role in joint movements, we believe that the small deep portion of the masseter and temporalis have a supplementary action in guiding the articular disc forward. The embryologists have demonstrated joint movements in the two-month embryo and at this stage there already exists a triple attachment of the temporalis, pterygoid and masseter to the disc.