The TMJ exhibits ginglymoarthrodial, or __________, movement.

Question

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The TMJ exhibits ginglymoarthrodial, or rotational and translational, movement. Translational movement occurs in the upper compartment, whereas the lower compartment functions primarily as the hinge or rotational component. The first phase of opening movement is characterized by rotational movement of the condyle followed by anterior translation to approximately the anterior peak of the articular eminence. The opening is accomplished mainly by the lateral pterygoid muscle, with some help from the anterior digastric muscle. The masseter, medial pterygoid, and temporalis are elevator muscles that close the mandible when activated. The point of maximal interdigitation is called centric occlusion.

The TMJ Exhibits Ginglymoarthrodial, or __________, Movement