The maxilla is a paired bone forming the majority of the facial skeleton and the upper jaw.

Figure 1. Lateral view of the right maxilla (simplified).

Description

The maxilla (pleural: maxillae) is a paired bone that forms the majority of the facial skeleton, as well as serves as the following:

  • Floor of the orbit
  • Upper jaw and roof of the mouth
  • Inferior portion of the pyriform aperture (opening of the nasal cavity)
  • Lateral walls of the nasal cavity

Parts

Each maxilla has a body and 4 processes through which it articulates with adjacent bones. The processes include:

  • Frontal process. A superior projection that articulates with the frontal and nasal bones.
  • Zygomatic process. A lateral projection that articulates with the zygomatic bone.
  • Alveolar process. A thickened, U-shaped part of the maxillae (when fused) into which the upper (maxillary) teeth anchor.
  • Palatine process. A thick, horizontal process that forms the anterior portion of the roof of the mouth (hard palate).
    • The palatine process of each maxilla fuses at the midline, forming the

Subscribe now to continue reading

Join hundreds of successful students who use Meddists to ace their exams.

Gain access to all of the material and topics, custom-made just for you.

Continue