Anterior Temporomandibular joint dislocation: A report of three cases

Abstract

Anterior temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dislocation is a distressing condition that can occur with everyday activities, mandibular manipulations, use of some medications and trauma. Diagnosis of this condition is made from a careful history and clinical examination complemented with imaging investigations. The treatment options available for anterior TMJ dislocations vary from conservative treatment to complex surgical procedures but there is still no consensus on the best treatment option. We report the presentation of anterior TMJ dislocation in three young men. Conservative treatment was successful in two but the third patient developed chronic recurrent dislocation that required bilateral eminectomy.