The angle of the mandible, also known as the angle of the jaw, is a bony prominence located at the posterior border of the mandible (lower jaw bone). It is situated between the ramus and the body of the mandible, and is formed by the junction of the horizontal and vertical planes of the mandible.
Structure
The angle of the mandible is a rounded, triangular-shaped structure that can be palpated just below the earlobe. It is composed of dense, compact bone and is covered with a thin layer of connective tissue called the periosteum.
The angle of the mandible is formed by the convergence of two different planes of the mandible: the horizontal plane and the vertical plane. The horizontal plane is formed by the alveolar process, which is the portion of the mandible that houses the teeth. The vertical plane is formed by the body of the mandible, which extends from the alveolar process to the angle of the mandible.
Location
The angle of the mandible is located at the posterior border of the mandible, just below the earlobe. It is situated between the ramus and the body of the mandible. The ramus is the vertical portion of the mandible that extends from the angle of the mandible to the condyle. The condyle is a rounded, articulating surface that allows for movement of the mandible during chewing and speaking.
Function
The angle of the mandible provides attachment for several muscles of the head and neck, including the masseter muscle and the temporalis muscle. These muscles are responsible for the movement of the mandible during chewing and speaking.
Apart from that, it also serves as a point of attachment for the ligaments and tendons that support the mandible. These structures help to stabilize the mandible and maintain its proper position in the skull.
Clinical Significance
The angle of the mandible is an important structure in the head and neck region that is often used as a reference point for various medical procedures. It is commonly used as a landmark for the injection of local anesthetics, such as when numbing the lower jaw for dental procedures.
It is also used in the evaluation and treatment of facial fractures. Fractures of the angle of the mandible can occur as a result of trauma, such as a car accident or a fall. These fractures can range from simple, isolated fractures to complex fractures that involve multiple bones in the head and neck region. Treatment of mandibular fractures typically involves realignment of the fractured bone and the use of wire, screws, or plates to stabilize the bone and promote healing.
In addition, the angle of the mandible is often used in the assessment of facial symmetry and aesthetics. Changes in the shape or position of the angle of the mandible can result in facial asymmetry, which can be corrected through surgical procedures such as mandibular angle augmentation or reduction.
