Editing Mandible

{{Infobox anatomy
| Name         = Mandible
| Latin        = Mandibula
| Image        = 
| Caption      = Lateral view of the mandible highlighting the ramus, body, and alveolar process.
| System       = [[Skeletal system]]
| Articulation = [[Temporal bone]] (at the TMJ)
| Nerve        = [[Inferior alveolar nerve]], [[Mental nerve]], [[Lingual nerve]]
}}

==Definition==
The '''mandible''' is the horseshoe-shaped bone that forms the lower jaw and holds the lower [[teeth]]. It consists of a horizontal portion, the '''body''', and two vertical portions, the '''rami''' (singular: ramus), which articulate with the [[temporal bone]] to form the [[temporomandibular joint]] (TMJ).

Unlike the [[maxilla]], which is fused to the skull, the mandible is a movable structure essential for [[mastication]], [[speech]], and facial expression.

==Anatomical Features==

===1. The Body of the Mandible===
The horizontal part of the bone that supports the lower dentition.
* '''[[Alveolar process]]''': The superior margin containing the sockets for the mandibular teeth.
* '''Mental Foramen''': An opening typically located below the second [[premolar]] that transmits the [[mental nerve]] and vessels.
* '''Mental Protuberance''': The bony prominence forming the chin.
* '''Mylohyoid Line''': A ridge on the internal surface where the [[mylohyoid muscle]] attaches, forming the floor of the mouth.

===2. The Ramus===
The vertical part of the mandible that extends upward.
* '''[[Condylar process]]''': The posterior projection that articulates with the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone.
* '''[[Coronoid process]]''': The anterior projection that serves as the attachment point for the [[temporalis muscle]].
* '''Mandibular Notch''': The depression between the condylar and coronoid processes.
* '''Mandibular Foramen''': Located on the internal (medial) surface of the ramus; it is the entry point for the [[inferior alveolar nerve]].

===3. The Angle of the Mandible===
The junction where the inferior border of the body meets the posterior border of the ramus. It is a major attachment site for the [[masseter muscle]] and [[medial pterygoid muscle]].

==Clinical Significance==

===Local Anesthesia===
The '''[[Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block]] (IANB)''' is the most common anesthetic