Alveolar artery

Alveolar artery

The alveolar artery, as part of the maxillary artery.

The Alveolar artery is a branch of the maxillary artery that supplies blood to the alveoli of the teeth. It is a crucial component of the circulatory system in the oral cavity.

Anatomy

The alveolar artery branches off from the maxillary artery, which is one of the two terminal branches of the external carotid artery. It further divides into the inferior alveolar artery and the posterior superior alveolar artery, which supply the lower and upper teeth respectively.

The inferior alveolar artery, a branch of the alveolar artery.

Function

The alveolar artery plays a vital role in supplying oxygenated blood to the teeth and surrounding structures. It nourishes the alveoli, the sockets in the jawbone where the roots of the teeth are embedded.

Clinical significance

Damage to the alveolar artery can lead to hemorrhage, necrosis of the teeth, or alveolar osteitis, also known as dry socket. It is also a significant landmark in dental surgeries and procedures.

See also

• Maxillary artery
• Inferior alveolar artery
• Posterior superior alveolar artery
• Alveoli