The Temporomandibular Joint: Structure, Function and Dysfunction is a comprehensive, evidence-based synthesis of scientific knowledge regarding the joint formed by the lower jaw and the temporal bone of the skull written by Loma Linda University School of Dentistry faculty Edwin L. Christiansen, DDS, Odont. Dr, and Charles J. Goodacre, DDS, MSD. Contributing authors, Kenneth Abramovitch, DDS, MSD, and Dwight D. Rice, DDS, added a generously illustrated chapter entitled, “Temporomandibular Joint Advanced Imaging” that includes MRI movies of normal and abnormal joint function.
Published as an eBook by the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation (FOR), this interactive resource provides a valuable understanding of TMJ macro- micro-anatomy, function, and dysfunction. It’s collection of 650 images and anatomic sections vividly illustrate the joint’s intricate structure and characteristics.
Written by experienced dental instructors and practitioners, The Temporomandibular Joint is the ideal textbook—with richly illustrated diagnostic imaging of the TMJ that reveals normal and abnormal characteristics, a review of the symptoms exhibited by patients with temporomandibular disorders, nine animations of the joint and muscles, 12 videos, 325 scientific literature references, a comprehensive glossary, and many self assessment opportunities.
The original intent of the project was to compile an illustrated TMJ teaching library for dental students and faculty. Outstanding color images were obtained through the photographic expertise of Robert (Bob) Rearick (1927-2011) chief medical photographer, Loma Linda University Medical Center. The arduous and protracted image acquisition and compiling that began over 30 years ago, backed by 19 years of diagnosing and treating TMJ patients, ultimately formed the cord of this eBook.
In the year 2011, the lead author’s wife persuaded him to donate his complete collection of TMJ-related color slides to the LLU School of Dentistry. Dr. Goodacre, then dean of the School, urged him “to write everything you know about the temporomandibular joint” after which Dr. Christiansen emerged from retirement to three years of writing and rewriting supplemented by additional sectioning and the continual, invaluable editorial contributions of Dr. Goodacre.
Students, researchers, and practitioners who utilize this digital compendium will enlarge their appreciation for the joint, enhance their ability to visualize its 3D complexity, and augment their competence to diagnose and treat TMD patients.
Dr. Christiansen’s preparation of correlated computed tomography and anatomic sections illustrating normal and abnormal temporomandibular joints was adapted and modified from the work of Drs. Joseph Thompson and Anton N. Hasso.
With The Temporomandibular Joint, FOR’s second digital textbook, the foundation continues its production of interactive, electronic, pedagogical tools calculated to improve the quality of oral health care everywhere.