Which of the following is NOT listed among the six main arteries supplying the TMJ?

• A. Internal Carotid
• B. Ascending Pharyngeal
• C. External Carotid
• D. Deep Auricular

Answer: (A)

The arteries that feed the TMJ come from the external carotid system. The internal carotid artery mainly supplies intracranial and orbital structures and does not give direct branches to the TMJ, so it isn’t counted among the TMJ’s main arterial suppliers. Branches like the deep auricular artery and the ascending pharyngeal artery (both associated with the external carotid system) are among those that nourish the joint, along with other external carotid branches that reach the joint capsule and synovial tissues. In short, the TMJ’s blood supply stems from external carotid branches, not from the internal carotid, which is why the internal carotid is the correct choice.