Alveolar canals

Gray157.png

Small channels in the jawbone that house blood vessels and nerves

Anatomy

Latin	canales alveolares

The alveolar canals (canales alveolares) are small channels located within the jawbone that house the alveolar arteries and alveolar nerves. These canals play a crucial role in supplying blood and nerve signals to the teeth and the surrounding periodontal ligament.

Anatomy

The alveolar canals are found in both the maxilla (upper jaw) and the mandible (lower jaw). They are part of the alveolar process, which is the thickened ridge of bone that contains the dental alveoli, the sockets of the teeth.

Maxillary Alveolar Canals

In the maxilla, the alveolar canals are located within the alveolar process of maxilla. They carry the superior alveolar arteries and the superior alveolar nerves, which are branches of the maxillary artery and the maxillary nerve, respectively. These structures provide the necessary blood supply and innervation to the upper teeth.

Mandibular Alveolar Canals

In the mandible, the alveolar canals are found within the alveolar process of mandible. They house the inferior alveolar artery and the inferior alveolar nerve, which are branches of the maxillary artery and the mandibular nerve, respectively. These structures are essential for the blood supply and innervation of the lower teeth.

Function

The primary function of the alveolar canals is to protect and provide a pathway for the alveolar arteries and alveolar nerves. These canals ensure that the teeth receive adequate blood flow and nerve signals, which are vital for maintaining tooth health and oral sensation.

Clinical Significance

Damage or disease affecting the alveolar canals can lead to various dental issues, including tooth pain, tooth loss, and periodontal disease. Understanding the anatomy and function of these canals is important for dental professionals when performing procedures such as tooth extraction, dental implants, and root canal therapy.

See also

• Alveolar process
• Maxilla
• Mandible
• Periodontal ligament
• Dental alveolus