Cavitation in TMJ development occurs during which weeks?

Cavitation in TMJ development occurs during which weeks?

• A. 9-11 weeks
• B. 7-8 weeks
• C. 12-14 weeks
• D. 5-6 weeks

Answer: (A)

Cavitation is the step where the joint space forms between the developing condyle of the mandible and the temporal bone, creating the synovial cavity that allows the TMJ to function as a true joint with an articular disc and capsule. This begins around 9 to 11 weeks of gestation, when the interzone opens and the joint cavity starts to appear. Earlier weeks are focused on forming the condylar cartilage and initial mesenchymal condensations, while later weeks reflect maturation after the cavity has already established. So, the window of 9–11 weeks best matches when cavitation first occurs.

Cavitation is the step where the joint space forms between the developing condyle of the mandible and the temporal bone, creating the synovial cavity that allows the TMJ to function as a true joint with an articular disc and capsule. This begins around 9 to 11 weeks of gestation, when the interzone opens and the joint cavity starts to appear. Earlier weeks are focused on forming the condylar cartilage and initial mesenchymal condensations, while later weeks reflect maturation after the cavity has already established. So, the window of 9–11 weeks best matches when cavitation first occurs.