The external oblique ridge projects forward from which structure?

• A. The posterior border of the maxilla.
• B. The anterior border of the mandibular ramus projecting backward.
• C. The anterior border of the mandibular ramus projecting forward.
• D. The lingual surface of the mandible near the submandibular fossa.

Answer: (C)

The external oblique ridge is a raised line on the outer surface of the mandible that begins at the anterior border of the mandibular ramus and runs forward along the body toward the front teeth. That forward projection from the anterior border of the ramus is what defines this ridge. The other descriptions point to different areas (the maxilla, the opposite border of the ramus, or the inner (lingual) surface near the submandibular fossa) and don’t describe the actual origin and direction of the external oblique ridge.