Which structure is part of the facial skeleton?

The mandible is considered a part of the facial skeleton because it is the only movable bone of the skull and forms the lower jaw. It plays a crucial role in functions such as chewing and speaking, and it provides the structure for the lower face. The mandible connects to the temporal bones of the skull at the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), allowing for movement.

In contrast, the frontal, parietal, and temporal bones are classified as part of the cranial skeleton. The frontal bone forms the forehead and the upper part of the eye sockets, while the parietal bones create a large portion of the top and sides of the skull. The temporal bones are located beneath the parietal bones and house important structures for hearing and balance. None of these cranial bones contribute to the facial structure in the same way that the mandible does.