Mandibelära

Mandibelära is a term that refers to the lower jawbone, also known as the mandible. This bony structure is a critical component of the facial skeleton and plays a vital role in several functions, including chewing, speaking, and supporting the lower teeth. The mandible is a U-shaped bone that extends from the chin to the angles of the jaw, articulating with the temporal bones of the skull at the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). These joints allow for the complex movements of the jaw necessary for mastication and speech.

The mandible is composed of several parts, including the body, the ramus, the angle, and the condylar process. The body forms the horizontal part of the jaw, housing the lower teeth. The ramus is the vertical projection that extends upwards from the body. The angle is the point where the body and ramus meet. The condylar process terminates in the condyle, which fits into the articular fossa of the temporal bone, forming the TMJ.

Disorders and injuries affecting the mandible can significantly impact a person's ability to eat, speak, and even breathe. Fractures of the mandible are common and can result from trauma. Conditions such as temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) can cause pain and limited movement in the jaw. Dental issues, including malocclusion (improper bite), can also be related to the structure and alignment of the mandible. Medical professionals like dentists, oral surgeons, and ENTs are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the mandible.