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The jaw is a structure of the skull that allows the mouth to function properly. It is responsible for opening and closing the mouth, which is essential for both chewing and speaking. The jaw is composed of two primary bones: the mandible and the maxilla. Each is subdivided into a number of smaller sections, and both the mandible and the maxilla house teeth. The jaw is controlled by a group of muscles known as the muscles of mastication. Three of these muscles are responsible for closing the jaw, while one is responsible for sideways and forward motion. The muscles of mastication are distinct from other facial muscles, which are responsible for facial expression.