Which bones of the jaw and skull form the temporomandibular joint?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull. Understanding the anatomy of the TMJ is crucial for dental nursing practice because issues with this joint can lead to complications such as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which can affect patients' comfort and oral health.

The correct pairing for the formation of the TMJ involves the head of the condyle, which is a rounded end of the mandible, articulating with the temporal bone of the skull. This joint allows for movements necessary for chewing, speaking, and other jaw functions. The head of the condyle fits into the glenoid fossa of the temporal bone, which is a depression in the skull that houses this part of the joint.

In contrast to the correct answer, the other options do not involve the specific bones that directly constitute the TMJ. For example, the coronoid process is a projection from the mandible that serves as a muscle attachment point but does not participate in the joint's articular surface. Similarly, the ramus of the mandible, while part of the mandible and important in its overall structure, does not engage directly with the skull