The mandibular notch, also known as the mandibular incisura, is a depression located on the posterior border of the mandible, the lower jaw bone. It is an important anatomical structure that serves various functions and has clinical significance in dental and facial surgery.
Structure
The mandibular notch is a shallow depression located on the posterior border of the mandible. It is located just below the last molar tooth and is formed by the posterior border of the mandible, which is also known as the ascending ramus. The mandibular notch is bordered by the mandibular condyle on the lateral side and the coronoid process on the medial side.
The mandibular condyle is a rounded projection located on the posterior aspect of the mandible that articulates with the temporal bone to form the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The coronoid process is a triangular projection located on the anterior aspect of the mandible that forms part of the TMJ.
The mandibular notch is continuous with the mandibular foramen, which is a small hole located on the inner surface of the mandible. The mandibular foramen is an important structure that serves as the exit point for the inferior alveolar nerve and blood vessels, which supply the mandible and lower teeth.
Location
The mandibular notch is located on the posterior border of the mandible, just below the last molar tooth. It is located at the junction of the body and ascending ramus of the mandible and is easily palpable on the posterior aspect of the mandible.
Function
The mandibular notch serves several important functions in the anatomy of the jaw and face. Some of the key functions of the mandibular notch are:
- Facilitating the movement of the mandible: The mandibular notch serves as a pivot point for the movement of the mandible. When the mandible moves up and down, the mandibular condyle glides along the mandibular notch, allowing for smooth and efficient movement of the jaw.
- Articulating with the temporal bone: The mandibular condyle articulates with the temporal bone at the mandibular notch to form the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The TMJ is a hinge joint that allows for the movement of the mandible in various directions, including up and down, side to side, and forward and backward.
- Protecting the inferior alveolar nerve and blood vessels: The mandibular notch is continuous with the mandibular foramen, which serves as the exit point for the inferior alveolar nerve and blood vessels. These structures supply the mandible and lower teeth with blood and sensory innervation, and the mandibular notch helps protect them from damage.
