| Superior dental plexus | |
|---|---|
| | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | plexus dentalis superior |
| TA98 | A14.2.01.053 |
| TA2 | 6236 |
| FMA | 77528 |
| Anatomical terms of neuroanatomy | |
The superior dental plexus is a nerve plexus that innervates the upper/maxillary teeth and as adjacent structures. [1] It is formed by the anterior superior alveolar nerve (ASAN), middle superior alveolar nerve (MSAN), and the posterior superior alveolar nerve (PSAN). [1] [2] [3] It issues dental branches and gingival branches. [4]
A cadaveric study found the plexus to be situated in the alveolar process of the maxilla. [5]
The PSAN forms the posterior portion of the plexus and is distributed to the upper molar teeth and adjacent gingiva as well as the mucosa of the cheek. [1]
The MSAN forms the middle portion of the plexus and is distributed to the upper premolar teeth and the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus. [1]
The ASAN forms the anterior portion of the plexus and is distributed to the canine and incisor teeth as well as the anterior portion of the maxillary sinus. [1]