The Maxillary Artery: A Vital Pathway for Facial Circulation
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick Answer
The maxillary artery is a major vessel deep in each side of the face, starting near the parotid gland in front of the ear [1]. It delivers oxygenated blood to the jaw, teeth, lips, chewing muscles, and middle ear structures [1]. It is about 40 to 47 millimeters long and is a key anatomical landmark in medical treatments.
What the research says
Branches of the maxillary artery vary a lot between people. A systematic review of 49 studies on one branch, the posterior superior alveolar artery, found it was detected in 50% to 91.6% of cases, usually ran inside the bone, and averaged 1.0 to 1.2 mm in diameter, which is why the authors advise routine CBCT scans before sinus augmentation and posterior implant surgery. (Mahabob, Folia Morphol, 2026) [2]
Surgeons can find the artery reliably using bone landmarks. In a cadaver study of 4 heads (8 sides), a fixed landmark called the pterygo-maxillary fissure let the team locate the internal maxillary artery in every specimen without extensive skull-base drilling, and the technique was demonstrated on an aneurysm case as a bypass donor vessel. (Peto et al., Oper Neurosurg, 2020) [3]
Closing off a bleeding maxillary branch can be life-saving. In a single case report, a 32-year-old man with traumatic mouth and nose bleeding and a growing epidural hematoma had a ruptured branch of the left maxillary artery and the right middle meningeal artery blocked by embolization; 23 days later the hematoma had largely absorbed and his Glasgow Coma Scale score was 15. This is one patient, so it shows feasibility rather than proof. (Ye et al., Medicine, 2022) [4]
What does the maxillary artery do?
The maxillary artery serves as the primary distribution hub for oxygenated blood across the deep structures of the face. While superficial vessels handle the skin and outer tissues, the maxillary artery penetrates deep into the facial architecture to nourish the jawbone, teeth, and complex muscles used for mastication (chewing) [1]. By providing a steady flow of nutrients and oxygen, it ensures that these tissues can perform their daily functions efficiently.
Beyond its role in basic biology, this artery is highly significant in clinical settings. Healthcare professionals may utilize the maxillary artery as a bypass route during intricate surgeries for brain aneurysms or tumors located at the base of the skull [1]. It can also be targeted in endovascular procedures to stop severe nosebleeds or to cut off the blood supply to noncancerous growths and tumors [1], demonstrating its critical importance in modern medicine.
Facial Structure | Contribution of Maxillary Artery |
|---|---|
Oral Cavity | Supplies blood to the upper and lower teeth, gums, and the roof of the mouth. |
Sensory Organs | Provides essential circulation to the middle ear and ear canal as well as the nasal cavity [1]. |
Chewing Muscles | Delivers oxygen to the masseter and pterygoid muscles required for jaw movement. |
Facial Bones | Nourishes the jawbone and the area surrounding the cheekbones [1]. |
What is the anatomy and composition of the maxillary artery?
The maxillary artery is a complex vessel that originates within the parotid gland, located just in front of the ear [1]. It branches off from the external carotid artery [1] (see also our guide to carotid artery disease) and travels deep into the face. Anatomists typically divide the artery into three distinct sections based on its path and the structures it supplies: the mandibular section, the pterygoid section, and the pterygopalatine section [1].
Each section of the artery has specific dimensions and branching patterns. The mandibular section is roughly 14 to 16 millimeters long [1] and is the widest part of the vessel. The pterygoid section, which is the longest at 15 to 20 millimeters [1], primarily serves the muscles of the face. Finally, the pterygopalatine section is the shortest at about 11 millimeters [1] but is responsible for reaching deep into the nasal and oral cavities. For the superficial counterpart, read about the facial artery.
What conditions affect the maxillary artery, and how can you care for it?
The maxillary artery can be affected by temporal arteritis, aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms, and overall cardiovascular wellness helps protect it. These include temporal arteritis (giant cell arteritis), an inflammation of the artery walls that needs urgent care because, without prompt treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss [1]. Although rare, the artery can also develop aneurysms or pseudoaneurysms, which are weakenings or injuries to the vessel wall that can lead to localized swelling or pulsing lumps in front of the ear [1]. Treatment may include a minimally invasive operation for an aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm, or corticosteroid medicine for temporal arteritis [1].
Protecting the health of the maxillary artery involves maintaining overall cardiovascular wellness. Adopting a lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, limiting salt and alcohol, and avoiding tobacco products [1] can significantly reduce the risk of vascular disease. Regular medical checkups are also vital, as they allow healthcare providers to monitor blood pressure and catch potential issues before they escalate.
Conclusion
The maxillary artery is an essential component of facial anatomy, ensuring that the complex structures of the mouth, nose, and ears receive the circulation they need to function. Its role extends beyond simple nutrient delivery, serving as a critical asset in advanced surgical procedures. By prioritizing cardiovascular health and seeking regular medical advice, individuals can help protect the long-term integrity of this vital vascular pathway.
Take Action Today
Keep up regular checkups: visit your healthcare providers so your cardiovascular system can be monitored and issues caught early.
Adopt a heart-healthy diet: focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and limit how much salt you eat.
Stay active and tobacco-free: exercise regularly, avoid tobacco products and limit alcohol.
Report symptoms: tell a provider about a swollen or pulsing lump in front of the ear, temple or jaw pain, headaches or pain while chewing [1].
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the maxillary artery?
The maxillary artery is a major blood vessel located deep in the face that supplies blood to the jaw, teeth, and sensory organs.
2. Where is the maxillary artery located?
The maxillary artery starts in front of the ear within the parotid gland and branches off from the external carotid artery.
3. What does the maxillary artery supply?
The maxillary artery provides blood to the teeth, lips, jawbone, chewing muscles, nose, and the middle ear.
4. What are the three parts of the maxillary artery?
The three parts are the mandibular section, the pterygoid section, and the pterygopalatine section.
5. What is the mandibular section responsible for?
The mandibular section primarily supplies the jawbone, lips, chin area, and the middle ear.
6. What does the pterygoid section do?
The pterygoid section delivers blood to the various muscles used for chewing.
7. What is the role of the pterygopalatine section?
The pterygopalatine section supplies the roof of the mouth, teeth, jaw, eyelids, and the nasal cavity.
8. Can the maxillary artery be used in surgery?
Yes, surgeons often use it as a bypass route during operations for brain aneurysms or skull base tumors.
9. What is temporal arteritis?
Temporal arteritis is a condition involving the inflammation of the arteries, which can affect the maxillary artery and cause pain in the temples or jaw.
10. What are the symptoms of a maxillary artery problem?
Common signs include a swollen or pulsing lump in front of the ear, headaches, fever, double vision, pain in the temples or jaw, and pain while chewing.
11. How do doctors test the maxillary artery?
Providers use imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, MRAs, or angiograms to view the artery.
12. How big is the maxillary artery?
The maxillary artery varies by section, ranging from 11 to 20 millimeters in length and about 3 to 4 millimeters in diameter.
13. Is an aneurysm in the maxillary artery common?
No, aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms in this specific artery are considered rare.
14. How can I keep my maxillary artery healthy?
Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating well, limiting salt and alcohol, and avoiding tobacco.
15. What should I do if I have pain while chewing?
If you experience persistent jaw pain or pain while chewing, consult a healthcare provider for a physical examination.
Related Reading
Understanding the Facial Artery: Anatomy, Function, and Health describes the other main artery that supplies the face.
Carotid Artery: Anatomy, Function, and Stroke Prevention explains the neck arteries that the maxillary artery branches from.
Nosebleed (Epistaxis): Causes, Types, and Management covers nosebleeds and when they need medical care.
Epidural Hematoma: What Causes It, How It's Diagnosed, and How Long Recovery Takes — A Complete Guide explains bleeding over the brain, often from a branch of this artery.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Maxillary Artery: Branches & Anatomy. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated May 30, 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/25031-maxillary-artery
Mahabob N. Global anatomical variability of the posterior superior alveolar artery: a CBCT-based systematic review with AI-assisted risk stratification. Folia Morphologica. 2026;85:e01726172. PMID 42713712. https://doi.org/10.5603/fm.112832
Peto I, et al. Pterygo-maxillary fissure as a landmark for localization of internal maxillary artery for use in extracranial-intracranial bypass. Operative Neurosurgery. 2020;19(5):E480-E486. PMID 32585696. https://doi.org/10.1093/ons/opaa177
Ye Z, et al. Endovascular treatment of traumatic oronasal hemorrhage complicated with progressive acute epidural hemorrhage: a case report. Medicine. 2022;101(3):e28654. PMID 35060558. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000028654
Medical disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
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