lõualuul

Lõualuu is an Estonian word that translates to "jawbone" in English. It refers specifically to the mandible, the lower jaw bone that forms the lower part of the skull. This bone is a crucial component of the facial structure, housing the lower teeth and playing a vital role in chewing, speaking, and facial expression. The mandible is a single bone, U-shaped, and articulates with the temporal bone of the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allowing for the complex movements of the jaw. It is a strong and resilient bone, though susceptible to fractures from trauma. In anatomical and medical contexts in Estonia, lõualuu is the standard term used when discussing this bone.