* Sagittal plane: This is the plane that divides the body into left and right halves. The TMJ moves in the sagittal plane during opening and closing of the mouth.
* Transverse plane: This plane divides the body into upper and lower halves. The TMJ moves in the transverse plane during protrusion and retrusion of the mandible (moving the jaw forward and backward).
* Frontal plane: This plane divides the body into front and back halves. The TMJ moves in the frontal plane during lateral excursion (moving the jaw side to side).
Therefore, the TMJ is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of motion. These movements are crucial for speaking, chewing, and other daily activities.
