Maxillary artery

A major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to various structures of the face and oral cavity.

The maxillary artery is one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery. It arises deep to the neck of the mandible and traverses through the infratemporal fossa. This artery branches into several important vessels that supply blood to the maxilla, mandible, teeth, muscles of mastication, nasal cavity, and palate.

Terminologia Anatomica

arteria maxillaris

System

Circulatory system

Function

The primary function of the maxillary artery is to deliver oxygen-rich blood to various regions in the facial area, enabling proper physiological functioning of these tissues. Its branches provide vital blood supply to the maxilla and mandible, which are essential for dental health and proper mastication. The artery plays a crucial role in supplying the muscles involved in biting and chewing, thus supporting the digestive process. Additionally, the maxillary artery supplies the nasal cavity, contributing to the olfactory function and overall respiratory health. Through its multiple branches, such as the inferior alveolar artery, it also ensures the vitality of the lower teeth and surrounding structures. As such, any disruption in its blood flow can significantly impact oral health and facial functionality.

Location

The maxillary artery is located in the infratemporal fossa, a space beneath the base of the skull and behind the upper jaw. It originates from the external carotid artery, which ascends alongside the jaw, and its position runs deep to the neck of the mandible. The artery generally follows a medial trajectory and subsequently gives off multiple branches as it courses forward, supplying blood to adjacent structures in the maxillary and mandibular regions, including the deep facial tissues. Its anatomical location makes it pivotal in providing vascular support to the intricate makeup of facial muscles and oral health tissues.

Did You Know?

The maxillary artery is one of the two main branches of the external carotid artery, the other being the superficial temporal artery.
Its branches include important arteries like the inferior alveolar artery that supplies the lower teeth, and the middle meningeal artery that supplies the meninges of the brain.
In surgical procedures involving the jaw or dental extractions, the maxillary artery must be carefully preserved to prevent excessive bleeding.