Description
The alveolar process (alveolar part) is the thick, curved, inferior projection found along the inferior aspect of the maxilla. The alveolar process of maxilla:
—is continuous superiorly with the body of maxilla;
—is continuous both posteriorly and medially with the palatine process of maxilla;
—consists of the dental alveoli, interalveolar septa and interradicular septa of the maxilla;
—provides an origin site for the buccinator muscle;
—articulates with the alveolar process of the opposite maxilla, contributing to the formation of the intermaxillary suture.
The alveolar processes of both the right and left maxillae combine to form the maxillary alveolar arch, which lodges all of the maxillary (upper) teeth.
Related parts of the anatomy
