Figure 5.

Mechanobehavior and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ontogeny. This theoretical model proposes that the mechanical environment is defined by mechanobehavior ((mJ/mm³)²•sec_normalized) of an individual. The mechanical conditions dictate timing of cessation of TMJ growth, duration of cartilage maintenance or homeostasis, and the likelihood and timing of cartilage dysregulation. Longitudinal data from human subjects are required to test whether or not the trajectories toward early or late cartilage dysregulation and degenerative joint disease can be identified early in life and whether or not the variables that contribute to a trajectory can be manipulated to enhance homeostasis. The identified thresholds for transitioning from growth to maintenance and maintenance to dysregulation were empirically derived from data presented. Research is required to determine, within an individual, the variables that influence the magnitudes of these thresholds.