Lõualuus

Lõualuus is a term used in Estonian to refer to the mandible, which is the bone forming the lower jaw. It is a single, horseshoe-shaped bone located at the bottom of the face. The lõualuus is a crucial component of the skull, housing the lower teeth and enabling the function of chewing and speaking. It articulates with the temporal bone of the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allowing for the complex movements of the jaw.

The lõualuus is composed of several parts, including the body, which is the horizontal portion, and the rami, which are the vertical extensions that connect to the skull. It plays a significant role in facial structure and aesthetics. Injuries to the lõualuus can range from fractures to dislocations of the TMJ, impacting a person's ability to eat, speak, and breathe. Medical professionals specializing in oral and maxillofacial surgery are typically involved in the treatment of lõualuus-related conditions.