Which component forms part of the TMJ's articulating surface along with the condylar head?

Which component forms part of the TMJ's articulating surface along with the condylar head?

• A. Temporal fossa
• B. Zygomatic arch
• C. Mandibular notch
• D. Articular disc

Answer: (A)

The TMJ’s contact surfaces involve the condylar head sitting against the mandibular fossa of the temporal bone, with an articular disc positioned between them. That fibrocartilaginous disc fills the space and moves with the condyle, forming part of the articulating surface and enabling smooth hinge and glide movements. The temporal fossa is a broader skull area for muscle attachment, not the TMJ contact surface; the zygomatic arch and mandibular notch are not the joint surfaces involved.

The TMJ’s contact surfaces involve the condylar head sitting against the mandibular fossa of the temporal bone, with an articular disc positioned between them. That fibrocartilaginous disc fills the space and moves with the condyle, forming part of the articulating surface and enabling smooth hinge and glide movements. The temporal fossa is a broader skull area for muscle attachment, not the TMJ contact surface; the zygomatic arch and mandibular notch are not the joint surfaces involved.