This narrative review explores the potential pathological and molecular mechanisms of TMJ arthritis, identifying a significant research gap in understanding its etiology and pathogenesis. The study highlights the impact of factors such as aging, mechanical stress, and psychological influences on the condition, affecting approximately 30% of the Chinese population. The authors emphasize the need for better animal models and further research into the genetic factors influencing TMJ osteoarthritis for improved diagnosis and treatment strategies.

1. Potential Pathological
& Molecular Mechanisms of TMJ Arthiritis
A NARRATIVE REVIEW
BY
HANG JUAN, MU XING-TONG, ZHANG XU, LI CHANG-YI,
JOURNAL OF DENTAL SCIENCES, VOLUME 18, ISSUE 3, 2023
PAGES 959-971,

2. WHY I CHOSE THIS ARTICLE?
• Relevant to the Course
• Potential future research project
• Area of interest
• Research gap

3. BACKGROUND
TMJ OA is a progressive degenerative disease in the temporomandibular joint

4. SYMPTOMS
Pain
clicking
Limited
Mouth
opening

5. EPIDEMIOLOGY
• 30% of the Chinese population
• 14.56% imaging lesions on the articular surface and bone tissue.

6. AETIOLOGY
• Aging
• Gender
• Mechanical stress
• Trauma
• Body Posture
• Psychological Stress
• Oral parafunctional habits
• Psychological Stress

7. AIM & OBJECTIVE
• Etiology and pathogenesis of TMJ OA is still not clear.
• Comprehensive Literature search regarding molecular mechanism and
pathogenesis of TMJ OA.

8. POTENTIAL PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES

9. INFLAMMATORY RESPONSES

10. RESEARCH GAP
• Studies on genetic factors of TMJ OA can undoubtedly contribute to predicting
susceptibility, making a precise diagnosis, and tailoring therapeutic procedures for
patients.

11. CONCLUSION
• Though in-vivo and in-vitro animal models of TMJ OA have been successfully established
in various ways, it is urgent to develop models closer to human TMJ OA.
• New medicine, materials, and approaches for treatingTMJ OA needs investigations.
• The role of genetic factors in TMJ OA still need further investigation.