Palatine bones

These paired bones form a portion of the hard palate and contribute to the structure of the oral cavity.

The palatine bones are two L-shaped bones located in the back part of the mouth, forming part of the hard palate, nasal cavity, and eye sockets. Each palatine bone consists of a horizontal plate that constitutes the posterior part of the hard palate and a vertical plate that helps form the lateral wall of the nasal cavity.

Terminologia Anatomica

os palatinum

System

Skeletal system

Function

The primary function of the palatine bones includes providing structural support to the hard palate, which is essential for proper chewing and swallowing. By forming a barrier between the oral cavity and the nasal cavity, they play a crucial role in separating these two systems, preventing food and liquids from entering the nasal passages during eating. Additionally, by contributing to the formation of the eye sockets, they help protect the delicate structures of the eyes. Their position also aids in the formation of the orbit, allowing for a stable area for the attachment of muscles that control eye movement, thus supporting overall visual function.

Location

The palatine bones are situated at the back of the oral cavity. They lie posteriorly to the maxillae (upper jawbones) and are found on either side of the nasal cavity. Each palatine bone extends from the floor of the nasal cavity to the roof of the mouth, with its horizontal plate forming part of the hard palate. The vertical plate of each bone connects with surrounding structures, including the maxilla and the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone. Thus, the palatine bones are strategically positioned to play important roles in both oral and nasal functionality.

Did You Know?

The palatine bones' shape resembles the letter 'L,' with one part lying horizontally and the other vertically.
Cleft palate, a congenital condition, can occur when the palatine bones do not fuse properly during development, affecting speech and feeding.
Due to their location, the palatine bones are involved in the attachment of several important muscles, including those responsible for swallowing.
The palatine bones also contribute to the formation of two important spaces: the oral cavity and the respiratory passage.