The articular disc sits between which two structures?

• A. Condylar head and temporal fossa
• B. Mandibular notch and coronoid process
• C. Condylar head and zygomatic arch
• D. Articular capsule and condyle

Answer: (A)

The articular disc of the temporomandibular joint functions as a cushion placed between the moving mandible and the temporal bone. Specifically, it sits between the condylar head of the mandible and the articular surface of the temporal bone (the mandibular fossa/ articular eminence). This position allows the joint to divide into upper and lower compartments, enabling both hinge and sliding movements while protecting the bones from wear.

So the best pairing is the condylar head with the temporal bone’s articular surface. It’s not between mandibular notch and coronoid process or between the condylar head and the zygomatic arch, which are other mandibular or facial structures, and it’s not between the articular capsule and the condyle, since the disc sits between the condyle and the temporal articular surface inside the joint.