Lateral excursion

Definition

Lateral excursion is the side-to-side movement of the mandible (lower jaw) away from the midline, which is significant in actions such as grinding food during mastication. This type of movement showcases the flexibility and range of motion within the temporomandibular joint.

Related terms

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ): A flexible hinge connecting the jawbone to the skull, facilitating movements like chewing and speaking.

Mastication:

The process of chewing food in preparation for swallowing and digestion.

Mandible:

The lower jaw or jawbone, largest and strongest bone in the human face, involved in chewing movements