What is the Mandibular Ramus?
Before exploring how it changes, it's helpful to understand what the ramus is. The mandible, or lower jawbone, is a single bone composed of a horizontal body and two vertical extensions called rami (plural of ramus). Each ramus extends upwards to connect to the skull, forming the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This crucial structure provides the attachment points for the powerful masticatory (chewing) muscles, including the masseter and temporalis muscles.
The Age-Related Decrease of Ramus Height
One of the most surprising findings in studies of facial aging is that the ramus height consistently decreases over time, in both men and women. Early research may have suggested different outcomes by comparing adolescents to older adults, but modern, comprehensive longitudinal studies confirm a net decrease after skeletal maturity. For example, one 2025 study using artificial intelligence and 3D analysis found the ramus height decreased by an average of 5.3mm in women and 4.2mm in men between the ages of 20 and 79. Another study published in 2010 found a significant decrease in ramus height in both genders across age groups from 20 to over 65 years old.
The Role of Bone Remodeling
The decrease in ramus height is a direct consequence of the body's natural bone remodeling process. Bone is constantly being broken down by osteoclasts (resorption) and rebuilt by osteoblasts (ossification). In younger years, ossification outpaces resorption, leading to growth. With age, this balance shifts, and resorption can exceed formation, resulting in a net loss of bone density and volume throughout the skeleton, including the jaw.
Factors influencing mandibular remodeling:
- Hormonal Changes: Reduced levels of hormones like estrogen and testosterone as we age can contribute to a decrease in bone mineral density.
- Tooth Loss: The presence of teeth provides stimulation to the jawbone. When teeth are lost, the alveolar ridge bone that once supported them resorbs, which can also affect the overall jaw structure.
- Changes in Masticatory Force: A decrease in the force exerted by chewing muscles over time can also influence bone density and shape.
Impact on Facial Aesthetics
The structural changes to the mandible have a clear and visible impact on the appearance of the lower face. The decrease in ramus height, combined with an increase in the mandibular angle, leads to a less defined jawline.
How these changes manifest:
- Jowling: As the bone structure provides less support for the overlying soft tissues, the skin and fat begin to sag, creating jowls.
- Reduced Lower Facial Height: The overall height of the lower face is reduced, which can contribute to a more aged appearance.
- Changes in Chin and Cheek Area: Bone loss also occurs in other areas of the mandible, including the chin, further contributing to a loss of youthful contours.
Comparison of Younger and Older Mandibles
To better understand the changes, this table summarizes key differences observed between youthful and aged mandibles.
| Feature | Younger Mandible | Aged Mandible |
|---|---|---|
| Ramus Height | Greater, providing vertical support for the lower face | Reduced, leading to decreased vertical height |
| Mandibular Angle | More acute (sharper angle) | More obtuse (broader angle) |
| Bone Volume | Higher overall density and volume | Decreased density and volume due to resorption |
| Jawline Definition | Stronger, more defined contour | Softer, less sculpted contour, often with jowling |
Strategies for Maintaining Jawbone Health
While some age-related changes are unavoidable, certain measures can help support jawbone health:
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are crucial for preventing gum disease and tooth loss, major contributors to jawbone resorption.
- Eat a Bone-Healthy Diet: Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D through foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fatty fish, or through supplements.
- Avoid Tobacco: Smoking has been shown to be detrimental to bone health and can hinder healing processes.
- Consider Dental Implants: If tooth loss occurs, dental implants can help stimulate the underlying jawbone and prevent further bone loss in that area.
- Talk to Your Dentist: Consult with a dental professional about any concerns regarding jawbone health, especially if you have significant tooth loss.
For more in-depth research on mandibular changes, you can read this study on age and gender correlation of mandibular parameters published by the National Institutes of Health.
Conclusion: A Natural but Manageable Process
The question, "Does ramus increase with age?", reveals a misconception about facial aging. The reality is that the mandibular ramus decreases in height over time as part of a complex process of skeletal remodeling. This leads to a softened facial contour and the development of jowls. However, understanding this natural process empowers individuals to take proactive steps through diet, oral hygiene, and dental care to support jawbone health and manage the visible signs of aging.
