title: The position and function of the mandibular hinge axis.
abstract: It is widely believed that the mandibular hinge axis is anatomically located through the condylar head or its superior surface. This study, using markers placed over the average hinge axis point prior to orthopantograms, an analysis of lateral skull cephalometric radiographs and skull extrapolation, shows that the hinge axis is remote from the condylar head and in the region of the neck of the condyle. This site is consistent with the anatomical consideration of the function of the temporo-mandibular ligament.
authors.affiliation: Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, United Medical and Dental Schools, London, England.
authors.forename: R I
authors.initials: RI
authors.lastname: Nairn
mesh_terms: D002508:Cephalometry; D006801:Humans; D007574:Jaw Relation Record; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000502:physiology*; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology