[Microscopic-anatomic changes of the temporomandibular joint structure in miniature swine due to unilateral occlusion disorders].

The influence of artificial unilateral occlusal disturbances on the structure of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) condyle cartilage was investigated by an experimental study using the miniature pig "MINI-LEWE". After a burden over 20 weeks the side exposed to occlusal disturbance (right TMJ) turned out to have unchanged histological proportions in comparison with control animals. The condyles of the side with pressure loading (left TMJ) exhibited but a changed histological picture. Cartilage resorptions as well as accumulations of large blown chondrocytes indicate an increased tissue reaction within the chondroblastic layer near spongiosa. The morphometric investigations confirm these results. A significant increase was observed in cell density within the chondroblastic layer of the most superior point of the left condylus due to the permanent disturbance of the normal masticatory function.