The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a synovial joint essential for hinge and sliding movements of the mammalian jaw. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) are dysregulations of the muscles or the TMJ in structure, function, and physiology, and result in pain, limited mandibular mobility, and TMJ noise and clicking. Although approximately 40-70% adults in the USA have at least one sign of TMD, the etiology of TMD remains largely unknown. Here, we highlight recent advances in our understanding of TMD in mouse models.
Keywords: bones and joints; craniofacial; developmental disorders; genetics; mouse model; temporomandibular joint disorders.
© 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.