Role of Articular Disc in Condylar Regeneration of the Mandible

Abstract

Abstract:The articular disc in the temporomandibular joint plays an important role in mandibular growth. Functional appliances induce regeneration of the condyle even after condylectomy. The aim of this study was to examine the role of the articular disc in regeneration of the condyle after unilateral condylectomy with use of a functional appliance in growing rats. Fifty growing rats were subjected to unilateral condylectomy and then half of them underwent discectomy. The functional appliance was applied to half of the rats in each group to induce regeneration of the condyle. Four and eight weeks later, morphometric and histologic analyses of the mandible were performed. Regeneration of the condyle was demonstrated in the two condylectomy groups. In the condylectomy+appliance group, the shape and cartilage of the condyle were equivalent to a normal condyle. However, regeneration of the condyle was not observed in the two discectomy groups even with the use of the functional appliance. The articular disc appears to be crucial in the regeneration of a damaged condyle, suggesting that defects or damage to the articular disc may influence mandibular growth and regeneration or repair of the condyle.

The Temporomandibular Joint: A Critical Review of Life‐Support Functions, Development, Articular Surfaces, Biomechanics and Degeneration

“…In contrast, the TMJ develops from three separate mesenchymal condensations: (1) glenoid fossa, (2) condylar process of the mandible, and; (3) articular disc that forms superior to the condyle 5 . This more complex process is consistent with the dynamic nature of a secondary joint that evolves a periosteal articular surface that can form fibrocartilage, but still retains both wound healing and regenerative potential 3,4,10 …”

“…5 This more complex process is consistent with the dynamic nature of a secondary joint that evolves a periosteal articular surface that can form fibrocartilage, but still retains both wound healing and regenerative potential. 3,4,10 Origin of the TMJ disc is controversial. Frommer 21 and Shibukawa et al 22 report that the disc develops from a separate mesenchymal condensation between the condyle and fossa that differentiates into fibrocartilage.…”

“…Fibrocartilage on a TMJ articular surface is a sign of degeneration 4 . Regeneration of a mandibular condyle following a subcondylar fracture requires viable periosteum and an intact disc 10 …”

Temporomandibular Joint Regenerative Medicine

“…Along with poor remodeling of the mandibular condyle, destruction of its articular surface or osteophyte formation can occur [ 26 ]. It has been shown in vivo also that a functional disc is crucial for mandibular condyle regeneration [ 27 ].…”

The Effect of TMJ Intervention on Instant Postural Changes and Dystonic Contractions in Patients Diagnosed with Dystonia: A Pilot Study

“…An articular disc, a tough fibrous connective tissue composed of compressed collagen fibers, is positioned between the mandibular fossa and mandibular condyle. This articular disc is indispensable for condylar regeneration and may serve as a crucial environmental factor for periosteal activation [1]. The proper functioning of the TMJ and its related components is crucial for directing the movement of the mandible and distributing the stresses that arise from routine activities like chewing, swallowing, talking, yawning, and other functions.…”