HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

The term that describes the upper jaw is "maxilla." The maxilla is a crucial component of the facial skeleton and holds the upper teeth while also forming parts of the eye sockets, nasal cavity, and roof of the mouth. It plays a pivotal role in chewing and speaking, as it provides structure and support for the upper dental arch. Understanding the anatomy of the maxilla is fundamental in dentistry, as it relates directly to procedures involving the upper teeth and the overall alignment of the jaw.

In contrast, the mandible refers to the lower jaw, which works in conjunction with the maxilla during movements like chewing. Molar refers to a type of tooth specifically designed for grinding food, and occlusal relates to the contact area between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Each of these terms has its own significance in dental terminology and anatomy, but when specifically discussing the upper jaw, the appropriate term is indeed "maxilla."