Spontaneous Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation.

Dislocation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the displacement of the head of the condyle from its normal position in the glenoid fossa. Anterior dislocations are the most common type of TMJ dislocations. Prognathism of the lower jaw, anterior crossbite, and open bite are the classic features in bilateral TMJ dislocations.The treatment of acute TMJ dislocation involves manual reduction with or without general anesthesia. The use of maxillomandibular fixation is reserved for chronic, more complex dislocations. Determining the presence of a predisposing factor is very important in guiding the correct treatment and management for this condition.The authors present a case of acute spontaneous temporomandibular joint dislocation where multiple predisposing factors were recognized, requiring treatment with maxillomandibular fixation after manual reduction.