Partial TMJ dislocation = Subluxation

1. Mohammed A. Alawad

2. Luxation Sub-luxation

5. A clinical condition with repeated episodes of PARTIAL dislocation of
the TMJ where there is abnormal anterior excursion of the condyle beyond
the articular eminence

6. Subluxation in simple words can be explained as slipping of the condyle
from its socket. The condition may involve the TMJ on one or both the sides.
It is a incomplete dislocation of the jaw which generally
follows stretching of the ligaments and the capsule surrounding the TMJ.

7. The condition can be unilateral or bilateral in nature. It is usually accompanied by:
caused by temporary locking of the condyle
of the jaws.
while opening the mouth.
is generally associated with complete opening of the mouth.
The repeated attack of dislocation is common on prolonged mouth opening or stretching. After
each subsequent attack of subluxation, there is further stretching of the joint capsule which
aggravates the condition and leads to further recurrence.

8. — The major cause of temporomandibular subluxation is injuries to the
capsule surrounding the joint or the ligaments aiding in joint
movements.
It is also seen in:
• Severe Epilepsy
• Dystrophia myotonica (muscles reduction)
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. (a group of genetic connective tissue
disorders. symptoms include loose joints)

9. — Prolonged dental appointments with long continuous opening of mouth can be
one of the triggering factors for temporomandibular subluxation.
— Regular day to day activities such as:
• Yawning
• Singing
• Laughing
• Vomiting
• Sleeping on one arm in bed can trigger the dislocation.

10. PETERSON'S PRINCIPLES OF ORAL
AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 2nd Edition
page 912-918