Maxillary second molar

Study entry

Location

Socket of the alveolar process of the maxilla, behind the first molar.

Structure

It is smaller than the first molar and the distopalatal cusp is more reduced. It usually has three roots, which lie closer together and may fuse. It erupts at about 12 years.

Neighborhood

The roots are in contact with the floor of the maxillary sinus; behind it lies the tuberosity of the maxilla.

Blood supply

Posterior superior alveolar artery, branch of the maxillary; the veins accompany the artery.

Innervation

Superior dental plexus, formed by the posterior superior alveolar branches of the maxillary nerve (CN V2).

Lymphatics

The lymphatic vessels of the tooth and gum drain mainly into the submandibular lymph nodes.

Clinical

Among the teeth, it is the one with the closest relation to the maxillary sinus; extraction or infection can connect the mouth with the sinus.

Source: cap. 8, «Dientes»; tabla 8-13 B (erupción de los dientes permanentes)

Other structures in this region

• Maxillary central incisor
• Maxillary lateral incisor
• Maxillary canine
• Maxillary first premolar
• Maxillary second premolar
• Maxillary first molar
• Maxillary third molar
• Mandibular central incisor