BILATERAL MANDIBULAR CORONOID FORAMINA WITH BILATERAL ACCESSORY FORAMINA ON THE LATERAL ASPECT OF THE RAMUS; AN UNSEEN VARIANCE DISCOVERY IN HUMANS.

The mandible or the submaxilla is a "U"-shaped pivotal structure, considering the attachment of the muscles of mastication with relation to mastication itself. The coronoid process is a variably shaped beak-like projection at the anterosuperior aspect of the ramus. The anterior border of which is convex and continuous with that of the ramus. Posteriorly, the border is slightly concave and contributes to the mandibular notch. The entire border of the coronoid along with the medial surface provides attachment for the temporalis muscle. Previous studies have shown that the size and shape of the coronoid are correlated to the bite force required by an individual and is dependent upon the mechanical force acting upon it during development. However, little is known about the developmental program leading to the specification of the process. The relative size & shape of the coronoid process varies considerably across individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]