Anatomy, Head and Neck, Mandible

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). Articulation with the skull base at the bilateral temporomandibular joints allows a range of movements facilitated by associated muscles, including dental occlusion with the maxilla (see Image. Jaw Anatomy, Lateral View). The mandible is also the insertion point for a range of muscles involved in facial expression. Mandible fractures are relatively common in trauma, particularly among young males, and half are caused by interpersonal violence.