What is the term for the fibrocartilaginous structure between the condyle and the temporal fossa in the TMJ?

What is the term for the fibrocartilaginous structure between the condyle and the temporal fossa in the TMJ?

• A. Articular disc
• B. Intercondylar disc
• C. Infratemporal disc
• D. Fibrocartilaginous disc

Answer: (A)

In the TMJ, a fibrocartilaginous pad sits between the mandibular condyle and the temporal fossa, and its name is the articular disc. This disc acts as a cushion and a spacer that divides the joint into superior and inferior compartments, allowing both hinge (rotation) and translation (gliding) movements needed for chewing. It’s anchored to the joint capsule and to surrounding structures, with a thick posterior band helping stabilize the rear while the anterior part attaches toward the condyle and the lateral pterygoid muscle. Other terms aren’t used because the standard name for this specific structure is articular disc.

In the TMJ, a fibrocartilaginous pad sits between the mandibular condyle and the temporal fossa, and its name is the articular disc. This disc acts as a cushion and a spacer that divides the joint into superior and inferior compartments, allowing both hinge (rotation) and translation (gliding) movements needed for chewing. It’s anchored to the joint capsule and to surrounding structures, with a thick posterior band helping stabilize the rear while the anterior part attaches toward the condyle and the lateral pterygoid muscle. Other terms aren’t used because the standard name for this specific structure is articular disc.