Superior alveolar arteries

Superior alveolar artery refers to the branches of the maxillary artery that supply the maxilla, maxillary sinus, and associated structures. These branches are primarily responsible for vascularizing the maxillary teeth, gingiva, and mucosa.

Anatomy and Branches

The superior alveolar artery consists of three primary branches, each with distinct anatomical distributions:

• Posterior superior alveolar artery
• Middle superior alveolar artery
• Anterior superior alveolar artery

Posterior Superior Alveolar Artery

The posterior superior alveolar artery arises from the third part of the maxillary artery and passes through the posterior superior alveolar foramina to enter the posterior wall of the maxilla. It supplies:

• Maxillary sinus
• Maxillary molars and premolars
• Buccal gingiva
• Adjacent mucosa

Middle Superior Alveolar Artery

The middle superior alveolar artery is an inconstant branch of the infraorbital artery, which arises from the maxillary artery. It courses through the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus and supplies:

• Maxillary premolars
• Maxillary sinus mucosa
• Buccal gingiva

Anterior Superior Alveolar Artery

The anterior superior alveolar artery originates from the infraorbital artery, which is a branch of the maxillary artery. It runs within the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus and supplies:

• Maxillary incisors and canines
• Anterior maxillary sinus
• Labial gingiva of the upper anterior teeth

Course and Distribution

The superior alveolar arteries form an extensive anastomotic network with the greater palatine artery, facial artery, and other branches of the maxillary artery. These arteries contribute to the vascular supply of the maxillary dentition and surrounding structures, ensuring adequate perfusion for bone, teeth, and soft tissue.

Clinical Significance

The superior alveolar artery is of clinical importance in:

• Dental procedures – Local anesthesia (posterior superior alveolar nerve block) requires knowledge of arterial location to avoid complications.
• Sinus surgery – Arterial branches can be encountered during maxillary sinus augmentation or sinus lift procedures.
• Facial trauma – Fractures of the maxilla may disrupt these arteries, leading to hematoma formation.
• Periodontal disease – Impaired blood supply can contribute to periodontal pathology and compromised healing.

Variations

The presence and course of the middle superior alveolar artery is highly variable, with some individuals lacking this artery entirely, in which case its function is compensated by posterior and anterior branches.

Related Structures

The superior alveolar artery is closely related to:

• Maxillary artery – Parent vessel.
• Infraorbital artery – Gives rise to anterior and middle superior alveolar branches.
• Superior alveolar nerve – Follows a similar course, innervating maxillary teeth.
• Maxillary sinus – Supplied by these arteries.

See Also

• Maxillary artery
• Infraorbital artery
• Superior alveolar nerve
• Maxillary sinus