Mandibular fossa

Mandibular fossa

The Mandibular fossa is a part of the temporal bone that is located on the inferior surface of the skull. It is a concave depression that forms the superior part of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects the mandible (lower jaw) to the skull.

Anatomy

The mandibular fossa is located on the inferior surface of the squamous part of the temporal bone, anterior to the mastoid process and posterior to the articular tubercle. It is bounded anteriorly by the articular tubercle and posteriorly by the tympanic part of the temporal bone. The fossa is divided into two parts: the anterior part, which is smooth and concave and forms the articular surface for the condyle of the mandible, and the posterior part, which is non-articular.

Function

The mandibular fossa forms the superior part of the temporomandibular joint, which is a hinge and sliding joint that is responsible for the movement of the mandible. This joint allows for the opening and closing of the mouth, as well as side-to-side and protrusive movements of the lower jaw.

Clinical significance

Conditions that affect the mandibular fossa can lead to temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), a condition that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Some common conditions that can affect the mandibular fossa include arthritis, fractures, dislocations, and infections.

See also

• Temporomandibular joint
• Mandible
• Temporal bone

References

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