Anterior superior alveolar arteries

Anterior superior alveolar arteries (ASAA) are a group of arteries in the human body that supply blood to the upper anterior teeth and maxillary sinus. They originate from the infraorbital artery, a branch of the maxillary artery, which is itself a branch of the external carotid artery.

Etymology

The term "anterior superior alveolar arteries" is derived from the Latin words "anterior" (meaning "before"), "superior" (meaning "above"), "alveolar" (referring to the alveoli, the small air sacs in the lungs), and "arteries" (the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood away from the heart).

Anatomy

The anterior superior alveolar arteries typically arise as two or three small branches from the infraorbital artery as it ascends in the infraorbital canal. These arteries descend in the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus and give off several branches which supply the upper anterior teeth (incisors and canines) and the mucous membrane and lining of the maxillary sinus.

Clinical significance

The anterior superior alveolar arteries are important in dental procedures, such as root canal treatment and dental implant placement, as damage to these arteries can lead to bleeding and other complications. Knowledge of the anatomy of these arteries is also important in the diagnosis and treatment of maxillary sinusitis, as inflammation or infection in the sinus can affect the blood supply to the teeth and other structures in the maxillofacial region.

Related terms

• Infraorbital artery
• Maxillary artery
• External carotid artery
• Maxillary sinus
• Maxillary sinusitis
• Root canal treatment
• Dental implant

See also

• List of arteries of the human body
• Dental anatomy
• Maxillofacial surgery

Anterior superior alveolar arteries Resources
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