The teeth are arranged in two horseshoe-shaped curves, the upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) dental arches. How the arches meet when the jaw closes is called occlusion.
| Location | Upper arch in the alveolar process of the maxillae; lower arch in the alveolar part of the mandible |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Superior alveolar nerves (maxillary nerve); Inferior alveolar nerve (mandibular nerve) |
| Blood Supply | Superior alveolar arteries; Inferior alveolar artery |
| Venous drainage | |
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Arrange the teeth so they meet properly for biting, chewing and speech.
Problems with how the arches meet (malocclusion) are treated with orthodontics. Crowding, crossbites and overbites change jaw mechanics and may add to jaw joint symptoms. Arch form is used to plan dentures and implants.
Misalignment of the upper and lower arches affecting bite, appearance and sometimes chewing.
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