Critical signaling molecules in the temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis under different magnitudes of mechanical stimulation.

The mechanical stress environment in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is constantly changing due to daily mandibular movements. Therefore, TMJ tissues, such as condylar cartilage, the synovial membrane and discs, are influenced by different magnitudes of mechanical stimulation. Moderate mechanical stimulation is beneficial for maintaining homeostasis, whereas abnormal mechanical stimulation leads to degeneration and ultimately contributes to the development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), which involves changes in critical signaling molecules.

Influence on the temporomandibular joint induced by mandibular malpositioning caused by vertical dimension elevation and occlusal loss in adult rats: An imaging, histological and immunohistochemical study.

Background: Mandibular malpositioning may result in an abnormal concentration of stresses within the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in adult rats, which may further lead to a series of pathological changes, such as articular cartilage wear, subchondral bone sclerosis and osteophyte formation. However, the pathological and adaptive changes in condylar cartilage caused by different stress distributions are still controversial.

Objective: The aim of this study was to observe the effect of sagittal changes in mandibular position on condylar cartilage by changing the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) in adult rats.