Mandible vs. Maxillae

Attribute	Mandible	Maxillae
Location	Lower jaw bone	Upper jaw bone
Number	1	2
Function	Supports lower teeth, aids in chewing	Supports upper teeth, aids in chewing, forms part of the nasal cavity
Articulation	Articulates with the temporal bone	Articulates with other facial bones

Introduction

The mandible and maxillae are two important bones in the human skull that play crucial roles in various functions such as chewing, speaking, and facial structure. While both bones are part of the facial skeleton, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the mandible and maxillae to understand their differences and similarities.

Anatomy

The mandible, also known as the lower jaw, is the largest and strongest bone in the human face. It is a U-shaped bone that forms the lower part of the skull and holds the lower teeth in place. The mandible consists of a body, two rami (singular: ramus), and a mandibular angle where the body and rami meet. On the other hand, the maxillae are two bones that form the upper jaw and contain the upper teeth. The maxillae are fused at the midline to form the upper jaw and part of the hard palate.

Function

The mandible plays a crucial role in chewing, as it moves up and down to help break down food into smaller pieces. It also plays a role in speech production, as it houses the lower teeth and provides support for the tongue and lips. Additionally, the mandible contributes to the overall shape and structure of the face. In contrast, the maxillae are responsible for supporting the upper teeth and forming the roof of the mouth. They also play a role in facial aesthetics, as they contribute to the shape of the face and provide support for the cheeks and nose.

Development

The mandible and maxillae develop from the first pharyngeal arch during embryonic development. The mandible forms from the fusion of two separate mandibular processes, while the maxillae develop from the fusion of two maxillary processes. The development of these bones is crucial for the formation of the facial skeleton and the alignment of the teeth. Any abnormalities in the development of the mandible or maxillae can lead to issues with chewing, speech, and facial aesthetics.

Articulation

The mandible articulates with the temporal bone at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allowing for movements such as opening and closing the mouth, chewing, and speaking. The TMJ is a complex joint that allows for both hinge and sliding movements. On the other hand, the maxillae articulate with other facial bones such as the zygomatic bones, nasal bones, and palatine bones. These articulations are important for maintaining the shape and structure of the face and supporting various functions such as chewing and speaking.

Injuries

The mandible is more prone to fractures compared to the maxillae due to its exposed position and lack of support from other bones. Mandibular fractures can occur as a result of trauma, such as a direct blow to the jaw or a car accident. These fractures can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking, and breathing if not treated promptly. In contrast, fractures of the maxillae are less common and usually occur as a result of high-impact injuries to the face. Maxillary fractures can affect the alignment of the teeth and the stability of the upper jaw.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the mandible and maxillae are two important bones in the human skull that have distinct characteristics and functions. While the mandible is responsible for chewing, speaking, and facial structure, the maxillae support the upper teeth and contribute to the shape of the face. Understanding the differences and similarities between these bones is crucial for diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the facial skeleton. By studying the anatomy, function, development, articulation, and injuries of the mandible and maxillae, healthcare professionals can provide better care for patients with facial skeletal issues.