What does “Upper and lower jaws” mean?
The maxilla and mandible are the upper and lower jaws. Their teeth meet to chew food, so understanding the dental arches also involves looking at how the two jaws relate to each other.
Comparing the positions of the jaws
The maxilla supports the upper dental arch and the middle of the face. The mandible supports the lower dental arch and chin. Separating tooth position from bone position makes facial anatomy easier to understand.
Jaw movement and tooth contact
The lower jaw moves when the mouth opens and closes, and the upper and lower teeth contact each other when you bite. Jaw movement and the points where teeth meet are related, but they are different things to examine.
Tooth alignment or the relationship between the jawbones?
If the front teeth do not meet or the upper and lower teeth appear misaligned, both tooth alignment and the relationship between the jawbones need assessment. Orthodontic treatment or surgery is considered using examination findings and treatment goals, rather than appearance alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both jaws move?
In ordinary mouth opening and chewing, the mandible is the moving bone. The maxilla forms the upper supporting structure.
Does having straight teeth mean the jaws relate normally?
Alignment within each dental arch and the way the upper and lower teeth function together are assessed separately. Chewing function matters as well as appearance.
Understanding the upper and lower jaws
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Have alignment within each arch and the relationship between the arches been considered separately?
Explanation and evidenceLook at how the upper and lower teeth meet, as well as the shape of each individual arch.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs · Understanding Jaw Anatomy and Problems - A choice suited to your condition
Is treatment intended to address appearance, chewing function, or both?
Explanation and evidenceDescribe how the relationship between the jaws and teeth affects daily activities during your consultation.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs · Understanding Jaw Anatomy and Problems
