What movement occurs in the lower TMJ cavity?

What movement occurs in the lower TMJ cavity?

• A. Hinge movement, opening and closing
• B. Gliding movement
• C. Rotational movement
• D. Protrusive movement

Answer: (A)

In the temporomandibular joint, the lower cavity handles hinge-like rotation of the condyle, which enables the mouth to open and close. This rotational movement occurs around a horizontal axis as the condyle turns inside the lower part of the joint. As you begin to open wider, the initial rotation is followed by a gliding (translational) movement in the upper cavity to allow further opening. So the lower cavity’s role is the hinge action that drives opening and closing.

In the temporomandibular joint, the lower cavity handles hinge-like rotation of the condyle, which enables the mouth to open and close. This rotational movement occurs around a horizontal axis as the condyle turns inside the lower part of the joint. As you begin to open wider, the initial rotation is followed by a gliding (translational) movement in the upper cavity to allow further opening. So the lower cavity’s role is the hinge action that drives opening and closing.