Which two bones join to form the jaw?

The jaw is formed by the union of two specific bones: the maxillae and mandible. The mandible, commonly referred to as the lower jaw, is the only movable bone of the skull and plays a crucial role in chewing and speaking. The maxillae, which comprise the upper jaw, support the upper teeth and also form part of the eye sockets and nasal cavity.

Together, these bones facilitate various functions, including articulation, mastication (chewing), and formation of facial structure. They are connected at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which allows for the necessary movement of the jaw. Understanding the anatomy and interaction of these bones is essential in both esthetics practice and broader anatomical studies, as it can influence techniques for aesthetic procedures involving the lower face.