Zygomatic bones

Facial bones that contribute to the structure of the cheeks and the orbit of the eyes.

The zygomatic bones, commonly referred to as the cheekbones, are paired bones located in the upper and lateral part of the face. They form the prominence of the cheeks and also contribute to the lateral wall and floor of the orbit, which houses the eyeball. Each zygomatic bone connects with several other bones, including the maxilla, frontal bone, sphenoid, and temporal bone.

Terminologia Anatomica

zygomaticum

System

Skeletal system

Function

The zygomatic bones serve several important functions in the facial structure. Primarily, they provide shape and support to the face, giving it a well-defined appearance. They also play a crucial role in protecting the eye by forming part of the orbit, which helps to shield the eyeball from trauma. Additionally, zygomatic bones are involved in the attachment of facial muscles, including those responsible for smiling and chewing. This muscle attachment facilitates expressions and movements vital for non-verbal communication and mastication. The zygomatic bones contribute to the biomechanical function of the skull by enabling appropriate distribution of forces during chewing and other facial movements, thus maintaining the integrity of the facial structure.

Location

The zygomatic bones are situated on either side of the face, just below the eyes and above the upper jaw. Their positioning is lateral to the maxilla and superior to the mandible. Each bone extends laterally, forming part of the zygomatic arch, which is the bony arch that connects to the temporal bone located near the skull. The zygomatic bones articulate with four other bones: the maxilla, the frontal bone, the sphenoid bone, and the temporal bone, creating a crucial junction for the facial skeleton and contributing to the overall structure of the face.

Did You Know?

The word 'zygomatic' is derived from the Greek word 'zygon', meaning 'yoke', as the zygomatic bones can resemble a yoke when viewed as a pair.
The zygomatic bones can help determine a person's ancestral lineage; their structure varies across different ethnic groups.
These bones are key contributors to defining facial aesthetics; they are often highlighted in cosmetic procedures to enhance facial contours.