Arccsontok

Arccsontok, or facial bones, are the bones that form the anterior portion of the skull and the facial skeleton. In humans, fourteen facial bones constitute the arccsontok: two maxillae, two zygomatic bones, two nasal bones, two lacrimal bones, two inferior nasal conchae, two palatine bones, the vomer, and the mandible. These bones encase and shape the nasal and oral cavities, contribute to the orbits, and support the soft tissues of the face. The maxillae and mandible also bear the dental arches.

Structure and classification: The arccsontok include paired bones (maxillae, zygomatic, nasal, lacrimal, inferior nasal conchae, palatine) and unpaired bones (vomer and mandible). The dental alveolar processes of the maxillae and mandible support the teeth. The palate is formed by the palatine bones and the maxillae; the orbits are partly formed by the zygomatic bones and the maxillae; the nasal cavity is formed by multiple bones, including the nasal bones, maxillae, palatine bones, lacrimal bones, and the ethmoid and vomer in various contributions.

Development and variation: Most arccsontok ossify intramembranously during fetal development. The mandible forms primarily by intramembranous ossification, with growth at the condylar region that contributes to jaw length and occlusion. There is natural variation in size and shape among individuals, and developmental anomalies can affect facial symmetry and function.

Clinical significance: The arccsontok are commonly involved in facial trauma. Fractures of the nasal bones, zygomaticomaxillary complex fractures, and Le Fort fracture patterns involve the arccsontok and affect facial stability, occlusion, and appearance. Pathologies can include dental disease, maxillary sinus involvement, and congenital conditions such as cleft palate, which impact function and appearance and may require multidisciplinary management.