Scanning electron microscopic and radiographic correlation of articular surface and supporting bone of the mandibular condyle.

Specimens of mandibular condyle from human cadavers were employed for scanning electron microscopic and radiographic observations of the articulating surface and underlying bone. Smooth articular surface supported by smooth bone was most frequently observed. Craters and depressions in the articular surface were associated with resorption of underlying bone. Lateral radiographs proved to be of limited value in detecting defects of this type.