High School

What facial bone is medially fused to form the upper jaw and central portion of the facial skeleton? It contains sinuses and is a keystone bone, meaning it articulates with all other facial bones except the mandible.

Answer :

Final answer:

The maxilla, which forms the upper jaw and articulates with all other facial bones except the mandible, is the bone in question.

Explanation:

The facial bone that is medially fused to form the upper jaw and central portion of the facial skeleton, contains sinuses, and is a keystone bone that articulates with all other facial bones except the mandible is the maxilla (plural = maxillae). The maxillae are a pair of bones that come together to form not only the upper jaw but also the majority of the hard palate, the medial floor of the orbit, and the lateral base of the nose. The alveolar process of the maxilla contains the sockets for the upper teeth, anchoring them in place. With its pivotal role in the facial structure, the maxilla interacts with multiple bones to support the facial structures.