The jaw is a bony structure in the face that holds the teeth and aids in chewing food. It consists of two main parts: the upper jaw, known as the maxilla, and the lower jaw, called the mandible. The jaw is essential for various functions, including speaking and eating, as it allows for the movement of the mouth.
The jaw is connected to the skull by joints called temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which enable it to open and close. Proper jaw alignment is important for overall dental health, and issues with the jaw can lead to discomfort or conditions such as TMJ disorders.