Mandible

The mandible, or lower jawbone, stands out as the largest and strongest bone of the face. Embryologically, it develops from the first pharyngeal arch. Structurally, it resembles a U-shape consisting mainly of two parts: the body, which forms the horizontal portion, while the two vertical projections called the rami.

The body of the mandible holds the lower teeth in place with the help of dental alveoli. From the body, the rami extend upward and terminate in two important processes: the condylar and the coronoid processes. The condylar process articulates with the temporal bone at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), facilitating jaw movement. This hinge and sliding joint allows for actions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning by enabling the mandible to move in various planes. Meanwhile, the coronoid process serves as an attachment point for the temporalis muscle, which plays a crucial role in chewing.

The mandible also features several foramina such as the mental foramen, which allows the passage of the mental nerve and vessels, providing sensation to the lower lip and chin. Located on the inner side of the ramus, the mandibular foramen serves as the entry point for the nerves and vessels that nourish the lower teeth.

Altogether, the distinct anatomy of the mandible underpins its essential roles in chewing, speaking, and shaping the lower portion of the face, marking it as a vital component of the craniofacial complex.