In jawed vertebrates, the mandible (from the Latin mandibula, 'for chewing'), lower jaw, or jawbone is a bone that makes up the lower – and typically more mobile – component of the mouth (the upper jaw being known as the maxilla).

Nov 3, 2023 · The mandible consists of two main parts: a body and two rami. These parts feature various anatomical landmarks that participate in important functions of the mandible, for example housing the teeth and providing the passage for neurovascular structures.

In humans, the mandible is the only mobile bone of the skull (other than the tiny bones of the middle ear). It is attached to muscles involved in chewing and other mouth movements and functions by moving in opposition to the maxilla (upper jaw); together, the two parts are used for biting, chewing, and handling food.

Sep 30, 2024 · The mandible, located inferiorly in the facial skeleton, is the largest and strongest bone of the face. It forms the lower jaw and acts as a receptacle for the lower teeth. It also articulates on either side with the temporal bone, forming the temporomandibular joint.

Feb 7, 2022 · The mandible is the largest, strongest, and the only skull bone capable of movement. It forms the lower jaw, and thus is also known as the lower jaw bone. It helps with the process of chewing along with the maxilla or upper jaw bone.

Apr 1, 2023 · The mandible is the largest bone in the human skull, forming the lower jawline and shaping the contour of the inferior third of the face (see Image. Mandible Anatomy).[1]

Oct 1, 2024 · The mandible bone's function is to open and close the mouth for chewing and speech. It also helps protect the organs of the face and hold the lower set of teeth in place. The mandible forms a joint on either side with the temporal bone: the temporomandibular joint.

Sep 11, 2020 · The mandible is the largest bone in the human skull and supports the lower teeth. It is the only mobile bone of the skull and is essential for chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Many muscles originate at or insert into the mandible bone.

Jan 18, 2025 · The mandible is a U-shaped bone that is located in the lower part of the face, below the maxilla (upper jaw). It is made up of two symmetrical halves, called ramus, which are connected by a hinge joint known as the mandibular joint or temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Oct 19, 2024 · The mandible, distinguished by its U-shape and strength, withstands the forces of chewing. It is the largest bone in the human face, composed of a horizontal body and two vertical rami. The body houses the lower teeth and forms the chin, while the rami connect with the skull at the temporomandibular joints, enabling jaw movement.