Prenatal growth of Maxilla - Click here

Prenatal growth of the maxilla begins early in embryogenesis and plays a critical role in midfacial development. The maxilla develops primarily from the first pharyngeal (branchial) arch and grows by intramembranous ossification, except at areas associated with cartilage derivatives.

During the 6th–7th week of intrauterine life, ossification centers appear in the maxillary process. The maxilla expands through bone deposition at sutural margins (frontomaxillary, zygomaticomaxillary, nasomaxillary, and palatomaxillary sutures) and surface remodeling. Growth is directed downward, forward, and laterally, contributing to facial height and width.

Simultaneously, the development of the palatal shelves and their fusion forms the secondary palate, which is essential for the separation of the oral and nasal cavities. Proper prenatal maxillary growth is crucial for normal facial esthetics, occlusion, and airway development.