Condylar Movement in Opening — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateDental Anatomy & OcclusionCondylar Movement in OpeningNDEB AFK

Which movement of the mandibular condyle occurs during the initial phase of mouth opening (first 20-25 mm)?

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Correct answer: D — Rotation (hinge movement) of the condyle in the lower joint compartment

Mouth opening involves two phases of condylar movement. The initial phase (first 20-25 mm of opening) is primarily rotation (hinge movement) of the condylar head within the lower joint compartment (between the condyle and the inferior surface of the articular disc). The second phase involves translation (sliding) of the condyle-disc complex anteriorly and inferiorly along the posterior slope of the articular eminence in the upper joint compartment. Maximum opening requires both rotation and translation.

Reference: Okeson – Management of Temporomandibular Disorders, 8th ed., 2019