Hyoid

The hyoid bone or lingual bone is located in the anterior midline of the neck in between the thyroid cartilage and the chin, in the shape of a horseshoe. At rest, it is situated at the base level of the mandible in the front and at the third cervical vertebrae behind. Amongst all bones, the hyoid bone is the only bone that is very different from other bones in terms of muscles or ligaments. It is hosted by the anterior, posterior and inferior directions, and helps in swallowing and the tongue movement. It further facilitates attachment to the muscles of the mouth and the tongue in an upward direction, the larynx in the downward direction, the epiglottis and pharynx.