Anatomy of the Mandible, Temporomandibular Joint, and Dentition

Abstract

Oral behavior encompasses active movement of the oral structures. The range and quality of oral behavior is essential for establishing and maintaining health and well-being. Key oral behaviors include breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speech. Key hard tissue elements involved in oral behavior include the mandible, temporomandibular joints, and dentition. This article will discuss the anatomy and interaction of the hard tissue elements and selected soft tissue elements associated with oral behavior.

Keywords: Dentition; Mandible; Masticatory muscles; TMJ and mandibular biomechanics; Tempormandibular joint.