Design:

1. We conducted background research to better understand TMJ disorders and identify ways to address the limitations of current treatments
2. Based on the limitations of the current prosthetic device, we established our three design criteria
3. To address these criteria, we designed a custom 3D printed TMJ with a biomechanically suitable exterior and an interior scaffold housing mesenchymal stem cells to facilitate bone regeneration.
4. Based on porosity, stability, pore size, and ease of removal, we determined that polyetheretherketone was the best material for the exterior of our prosthetic. For our scaffold, we chose chitosan because of its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and structure. 

Testing:

1. We plan to first see if MSCs can differentiate into TMJ tissue cells and whether or not the process occurs in the scaffold.
2. Next, we plan to test the mechanical strength and structural integrity of the prosthesis in a bone-like model, subjecting the device to forces and fluids commonly associated with eating, speaking, and jaw movement. Furthermore, we plan to test if the prosthesis, specifically component 1 can be removed easily by surgical tools.
3. Then, we plan to test a custom-fitted, made for a mouse, prosthesis for in vivo models with TMJD to observe for TMJ regeneration, stem cell differentiation, joint function restoration, and inflammatory marker reduction; this will help deduce if the TMJ prosthesis helps to cure TMJ and alleviate the subject from pain as we intended the device to.
4. Finally, if all is successful, we would like to enter clinical tests.