What Is Maxillary?

The definition of maxillary is pertaining to the jaw or the jawbone. It is used with diseases and conditions of the jaw.

Maxilla

• The word maxillary is derived from maxilla, where the two bones of the upper jaw fuse together. The root of the word maxillary comes from the Latin maxilla which means jaw.

Function

• The maxilla functions by holding the upper teeth in place in the jaw and encompasses the roof the mouth and part of the nasal cavity.

Diseases

• Maxillary sinusitis signifies an infection the maxillary sinus, while a maxillary cyst, which occurs in horses, is a growth that obstructs the nasal passages.

Insects

• In insects and arthropods, the maxilla signifies two long appendages that are attached behind the jaw.

Fun Fact

• Fish and birds do not have maxilla since they are replaced by cartilage and beaks, respectively.