Oberkiefer

Oberkiefer, in anatomical terms, corresponds to the maxilla or upper jawbone. It is one of the two paired bones that form the central portion of the face and upper jaw. The two maxillae meet at the midline at the intermaxillary suture and together carry the upper dentition in the alveolar processes.

Each maxilla consists of a body that houses the maxillary sinus, and several processes that extend to articulate with neighboring bones. The frontal process contributes to the orbital rim and the medial wall of the orbit. The zygomatic process forms part of the cheekbone, and the palatine process joins with the opposite maxilla to complete most of the hard palate. The alveolar or dental process supports the upper teeth. The maxilla articulates with multiple bones, including the nasal, lacrimal, ethmoid, inferior nasal concha, palatine, zygomatic, and frontal bones, contributing to the orbital floor, lateral wall of the nasal cavity, and anterior part of the palate.

Anatomical features often noted in clinical contexts include the infraorbital foramen, which transmits the infraorbital nerve and vessels, and the presence of the maxillary sinus within the body of the bone. Development occurs mainly by intramembranous ossification, with the maxilla growing during childhood and adolescence to accommodate dental eruption and changes in facial structure.

Clinically, the Oberkiefer is involved in conditions and injuries such as malocclusion, cleft lip and palate, and fractures of the maxilla, which are categorized in advanced trauma by Le Fort classifications (types I–III). The maxilla is a foundational component of the midface, essential for respiration, mastication, and aesthetics.