The lower portion of the maxilla is connected to the upper teeth through the alveolar process.
The roots of the teeth form grooves that extend up the anterior portion of the maxilla.
The alveolar process extends posteriorly below the maxillary sinuses and ends in the maxillary tuberosity.
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The alveolar process also contains channels through which the alveolar arteries, nerves, and periodontal ligaments run.
The palatine process includes the nasal floor and a portion of the hard palate.
The palatine process also consists of the superior nasal foramina.
Another depression called the zygomaticoalveolar crest is located below the zygomatic process and just above the alveolar process.
Sinuses are easily defined as holes in the skull which decrease the weight of the skull.
They are filled with air and lined with amucous membrane.
The maxillary sinuses are some of the largest sinuses in the skull.
Like the maxillary bone, the maxillary sinuses are pyramid-shaped with the apex extending towards the zygomatic bone.
Function
There are multiple functions of the maxilla.
It provides critical bone structure to the skull and defines the face, for example.
Nonetheless, the maxillary sinuses can be prone to disease processes including both benign and malignant growths and infections.
Associated Conditions
The maxilla can be affected by congenital malformation, injuries, and infections.
It may or may not include the lip, and it can be unilateral or bilateral.
It is one of the most common congenital (present at birth) conditions.
It is often because of a genetic syndrome.
Facial Fractures
Any trauma to the face can result in facial fractures involving the maxilla.
These fractures are classified by healthcare professionals using the LeFort classification system for maxillary fractures.
Sinusitis
Inflammation andinfectionof the maxillary sinuses is not an uncommon condition.
It can be more likely to occur in individuals with underlying conditions such asallergies.
Symptoms may include facial pain, congestion, and a runny nose.
You may have a sore throat (especially in the morning) due to post-nasal drip.
Depending on the underlying cause, treatments may include antibiotics, allergy medications, or evensinus surgery.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Conditions associated with the maxilla are often surgically treated.
This sometimes involves the use of breathing tubes, special bottles or feeding tubes.
Once these problems are adequately addressed, the cleft palate can be surgically repaired.
Sometimes multiple surgeries are required depending on the extent of the defect.
The treatment of any fracture involving the maxilla depends on the extent and nature of the injury.
In cases of severe trauma fractures to this part of the face may affect your ability to breathe.
Unfortunately, fractures in this area also often affect your ability to eat.
Inflammation or infection of the maxillary sinuses (sinusitis) can be acute or chronic in nature.
The sinus cavities can become infected with bacteria or other germs like fungi.
In the case of a bacterial infection, antibiotics are necessary.
Common treatments for sinusitis are measures to control underlying allergies and inflammation, such asantihistamines, and sometimes surgery.
If you have any signs or symptoms of problems with your maxillary sinuses, see a healthcare provider.
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