The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) has often been an elusive quarry in the quest for specific radiographic diagnosis. From its position in the skull base, the TMJ produces pain for many patients, and frustration for many physicians. This frustration stems from the knowledge that the soft tissues of the TMJ have profound effects on joint function and symptoms. Unfortunately, most routine imaging methods can only indirectly visualize these soft tissues. Similarly, most imaging methods rely on images in a single joint position, either opened or closed. Because the TMJ is a complex structure with both rotational and translational movements, static imaging has limited value in evaluating joint motion.1Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers an unparalleled method for imaging the soft tissues of the TMJ, and cine-loop viewing allows evaluation of TMJ motion. In addition, MRI requires no ionizing radiation and is noninvasive.As with all clinical MRI, successful TMJ imaging requires careful image production combined with knowledgeable image interpretation. That interpretation is based on an understanding of the anatomy and physiology, as well as pathologic processes, of the TMJ.In this article methods of image production will be discussed. Joint anatomy and function will be reviewed, and examples of normal and abnormal joints will be shown.