What defines the anterior margin of the temporal cavity?

The anterior margin of the temporal cavity is defined by the line of the temple. This anatomical landmark, also known as the temporal line, runs along the lateral aspect of the skull and serves as an important reference point in skull anatomy and on embalming procedures. It is specifically involved in the demarcation of various regions in the cranium, particularly differentiating the temporal fossa from surrounding areas.

Understanding the significance of the line of the temple is critical, as it helps in assessing the boundaries of the temple region, which is relevant for various procedures in mortuary science, including the positioning of remains during embalming and the aesthetic shaping of the face for viewing after death. The other anatomical structures listed, such as the maxilla, incisive fossa, and mental tubercles, serve different roles in craniofacial anatomy, but they do not define the anterior boundary of the temporal cavity.