Mandible

Os mandibulae

The mandible consists of a horseshoe-shaped body and two vertical rami. The body contains the alveolar process bearing the lower teeth. Each ramus has a condylar process (for the TMJ) and coronoid process (for temporalis muscle attachment). The mental foramen allows passage of the mental nerve.

Type Bone
Body System Skeletal
Body Region Face
Latin Name Os mandibulae
FMA ID 52748

Function

The only movable bone of the skull, forming the lower jaw. Essential for mastication (chewing), speech articulation, and maintaining the lower dental arch.

Clinical Significance

Mandibular fractures are the second most common facial fractures. The inferior alveolar nerve runs through the mandibular canal and can be damaged during wisdom tooth extraction. Temporomandibular joint disorders cause jaw pain and dysfunction.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mandible?
The mandible consists of a horseshoe-shaped body and two vertical rami. The body contains the alveolar process bearing the lower teeth. Each ramus has a condylar process (for the TMJ) and coronoid process (for temporalis muscle attachment). The mental foramen allows passage of the mental nerve.
What is the function of the Mandible?
The only movable bone of the skull, forming the lower jaw. Essential for mastication (chewing), speech articulation, and maintaining the lower dental arch.
What body system is the Mandible part of?
The Mandible is part of the Skeletal.
What conditions affect the Mandible?
Mandibular fractures are the second most common facial fractures. The inferior alveolar nerve runs through the mandibular canal and can be damaged during wisdom tooth extraction. Temporomandibular joint disorders cause jaw pain and dysfunction.
Where is the Mandible located?
The Mandible is located in the Face region of the body.

Related Structures

articular surface articular system joint system articulation joint Atlas (C1) Atlas attachment site axial skeleton plus cranial skeleton skeleton axiale Axis (C2) Axis bone collagen fibril

Medical Disclaimer

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