Facial bone

Facial bones are a set of bones in the human skull that form the basic structure of the face. They are involved in a variety of functions, including the support of facial muscles, the formation of the oral cavity, and the protection of sensitive organs such as the eyes and brain.

Anatomy

The facial bones consist of 14 individual bones. These include:

• Two Maxillae: These are the largest facial bones. They form the upper jaw and the lower part of the eye socket.
• Two Palatine bones: These form the back part of the nasal cavity and the roof of the mouth.
• Two Zygomatic bones: These form the cheekbones and the outer part of the eye sockets.
• Two Lacrimal bones: These are the smallest facial bones, located in the inner part of the eye socket.
• Two Nasal bones: These form the bridge of the nose.
• Two Inferior nasal conchae: These form part of the nasal cavity.
• One Vomer: This forms the lower part of the nasal septum.
• One Mandible: This is the only movable facial bone, forming the lower jaw.

Functions

The facial bones have several important functions. They provide a framework for the face, support the facial muscles that control facial expressions, and form the walls of the oral cavity and nasal cavity. They also provide protection for the eyes, brain, and other sensitive organs.

Disorders

Disorders of the facial bones can result from a variety of causes, including trauma, infection, tumors, and congenital abnormalities. Common conditions include fractures, osteomyelitis, and cleft palate.

See also

• Skull
• Cranial bones
• Human skeleton