The mandibular fossa is a depression located within the temporal bone of the skull. It is situated on the temporal bone just above the zygomatic arch, or cheekbone, and serves as the point of attachment for the mandible, or lower jaw bone.
It is an important anatomical structure that plays a critical role in the movement of the mandible and the proper function of the jaw.
Structure
The mandibular fossa is a shallow depression that is located within the temporal bone of the skull. The temporal bone is located on the side of the head, just behind the ear, and is made up of several different parts, including the zygomatic process, the squamous part, and the petrous part. It is situated on the temporal bone just above the zygomatic arch and is surrounded by several other important anatomical structures, including the mandibular condyle, the articular tubercle, and the temporalis muscle.
The mandibular fossa is a smooth, concave surface that is covered with a thin layer of smooth cartilage. This cartilage helps to reduce friction and wear between the mandibular fossa and the mandibular condyle, which allows for smooth and efficient movement of the mandible.
Location
The mandibular fossa is located on the temporal bone of the skull, which is situated on the side of the head just behind the ear. The temporal bone is made up of several different parts, including the zygomatic process, the squamous part, and the petrous part. The mandibular fossa is situated on the temporal bone just above the zygomatic arch, which is the bony prominence of the cheekbone.
Function
The mandibular fossa serves as the point of attachment for the mandible, or lower jaw bone. The mandible is connected to the temporal bone by a joint called the temporomandibular joint, or TMJ. The mandibular fossa and the mandibular condyle, which is a small, rounded projection located on the mandible, work together to allow for the movement of the mandible.
The mandibular fossa and the mandibular condyle are connected by a small, fibrous joint called the articular disc, which is made up of elastic fibrocartilage. The articular disc acts as a cushion between the mandibular fossa and the mandibular condyle, helping to reduce friction and wear between the two bones.
The mandibular fossa and the mandibular condyle work together to allow for the movement of the mandible in three different directions: up and down, side to side, and forward and backward. This movement is essential for the proper function of the jaw, including speaking, swallowing, and chewing.
