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Graphics, Layout, and Text Copyright ©1995 by Turhon Murad
Design, and Graphics Copyright ©1995 by Nanci Ellis

Project was sponsored, in part, by Technology and Learning Program, CSU, Chico

The Palatine Bones

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The Palatine Bones are paired left and right and articulate with one another in the mid-sagittal plane at the Interpalatine Suture. Both bones assist in forming the posterior portion of the hard palate as well as a portion of the nasal cavity. Each bone possesses a Horizontal Part, with an inferior surface which forms the posterior portion of the hard palate and a superior surface that assists in forming the posterior portion of the floor of the nasal cavity. The Vertical Part of each contributes to the lateral wall of the nasal cavity. Near the posterior junction of the Vertical and Horizontal Parts on the palatal surface is a Palatine Foramen. Each bone possesses a number of processes and articular surfaces which touch the bones that surround it.

A palatine touches, or articulates with, the following bones:

• Sphenoid
  
• Ethmoid
  
• Maxilla
  
• Vomer
  
• Palatine