Why Fibrocartilage Matters in the TMJ

Most synovial joints in the body rely on hyaline cartilage to cover their articulating surfaces. The TMJ is an exception: both the mandibular condyle and the temporal articular surfaces are covered by fibrocartilage, and the intervening disc is composed entirely of dense fibrocartilage.

Fibrocartilage contains a higher proportion of collagen fibers arranged to resist tensile and shear forces in addition to compression. This composition suits the TMJ’s combination of sliding and rotational loads better than the more purely compressive properties of hyaline cartilage.

The fibrocartilaginous surfaces also possess a greater capacity for repair and adaptation than typical hyaline cartilage. The superficial fibrous layer and underlying proliferative zone allow the joint to respond to mechanical demands throughout life.

This tissue specialization is a key reason the TMJ can endure decades of near-constant use while maintaining functional integrity in the majority of people.

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