Introduction: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) known as ginglymoarthrodial joint is a complex synovial system composed of two joints together with their articulating ligaments and masticatory muscles.
Objectives: To assess the histological effects of chronic sleep deprivation (CSD) on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) (Experimental study).
Methods: The study was conducted on16 Albino rats, aged from (8 – 10) weeks, and weighed from 190 to 210 gm. Rats were randomly allocated into two equal groups, a chronic sleep deprivation group (CSD), and a control group (CTRL). Each group was housed in a separate home cage but in the same room with free access to food and water. Rats of CSD group were subjected to CSD using the modified multiple platform method (MMPM) 18 hours per day for 3 weeks. Histomorphology of TMJ articulating surfaces were observed using light microscope (LM).
Results: LM showed significant pathological alterations in the TMJ in CSD group.
Conclusion: CSD causes pathological changes in the articulating surfaces of TMJ.