SPINA MENTALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Spina mentalis is a Latin term commonly used in the field of anthropology and physical anthropology to describe a specific morphological feature found in humans, particularly within the mandible or lower jawbone. The term "spina mentalis" translates to "mental spine" in English.
The spina mentalis is an anatomical structure that refers to a prominent ridge or bony protuberance located on the interior surface of the mandible. It is typically found in the midline, running vertically along the lower jawbone. This feature is specifically formed due to the attachment of the genioglossus muscle, which is responsible for controlling the movement and position of the tongue.
The prominence of the spina mentalis can vary among individuals, with some having a distinct, well-developed ridge, while others may exhibit a less pronounced or absent spina mentalis. The size and shape of this structure can also differ based on various factors such as age, sex, and genetic traits.
The examination and study of the spina mentalis are of considerable interest to anthropologists, as it can provide valuable insights into the morphological variations of human populations and aid in the understanding of evolutionary processes. Additionally, the presence or absence of the spina mentalis can also have implications in dental and orthodontic treatments, as well as forensic identification and analysis.
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Mental spine, genial tubercle; a slight projection, sometimes two, in the middle line of the posterior surface of the body of the mandible, giving attachment to the geniohyoid muscle (above) and the geniohyoglossus (below).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPINA MENTALIS
- apina mentalis
- zpina mentalis
- xpina mentalis
- dpina mentalis
- epina mentalis
- wpina mentalis
- soina mentalis
- slina mentalis
- s-ina mentalis
- s0ina mentalis
- spuna mentalis
- spjna mentalis
- spkna mentalis
- spona mentalis
- sp9na mentalis
- sp8na mentalis
- spiba mentalis
- spima mentalis
- spija mentalis
- spiha mentalis
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