Maxillary third molar

Study entry

Location

Socket of the alveolar process of the maxilla, at the back of the arch, next to the tuberosity of the maxilla.

Structure

It is the last tooth to erupt and the most variable: it may have a small, cone-shaped crown and short roots, usually fused. Many people do not form it (agenesis). The 3D model does not include this tooth. It erupts between 13 and 25 years.

Neighborhood

It lies just in front of the tuberosity of the maxilla and below the maxillary sinus.

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

It often stays retained (impacted) for lack of space and can cause pain, pericoronitis and caries in the second molar. The root can also raise the floor of the maxillary 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 second molar
• Mandibular central incisor