Caused by disruption of the ligaments that attach the articulating disk to the condyle of the mandible and the subsequent pull of the specific muscles of the joint such as the lateral pterygoid muscles. Three major causes include structural weakness, blunt facial trauma and mandibular hyperextension. (Hyperextension may be caused as a result of prolonged dental and surgical procedures that require intubation or subluxation [dislocation]of the joint.)
