Which bone forms the lower jaw and supports the lower teeth?

The mandible is the bone that forms the lower jaw and is the largest and strongest bone of the face. It plays a crucial role in supporting the lower teeth, providing the structure needed for chewing and speaking. The mandible consists of a body and two rami (the vertical parts that connect to the skull) and features sockets known as alveoli, which securely hold the lower teeth in place. Its mobility is essential for the action of the jaw, making it a key component in various functions, including mastication (chewing) and articulation of sounds.

In contrast, the maxilla forms the upper jaw and supports the upper teeth but does not serve the same function as the mandible in relation to the lower jaw. The nasal bone contributes to the structure of the nose and has no role in dental support, while the zygomatic bone forms the cheek area and helps shape the face but does not involve the jaw structure in terms of supporting teeth.