Maxillae: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from Latin, where 'maxilla' means 'jawbone' or 'little jaw'.
• The term has influenced various fields, including anatomy and dentistry, due to its importance in studying facial structure.

Anatomy

• Maxillae are paired bones, which means there are two of them in the human skull, one on each side.
• They connect with several other facial bones, forming the structure that supports the nose, cheeks, and teeth.

Dentistry

• In orthodontics, proper alignment of the maxillae is crucial for correcting bite issues and ensuring effective chewing.
• Dentists often use x-rays to assess the maxillae for dental health and proper growth in children.

Evolution

• The evolution of maxillae is critical to understanding how different species adapted to their diets over time.
• Through fossil records, scientists can study how the jaw structure of ancient species relates to modern creatures.

Cultural Influences

• In art and sculpture, the shape and prominence of the maxillae influence the aesthetics of faces in portraits.
• Maxillae play a role in different cultural practices, such as dental modifications seen in some indigenous groups, reflecting social status.

At rank #27,925, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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