Bones of the Face

The bones of the face form the structure of the front of the skull, giving shape to the face and supporting features like the eyes, nose, and mouth. Major facial bones include the maxillae (upper jaw), which hold the upper teeth; the mandible (lower jaw), which allows us to move our jaw and speak; the nasal bones that form the bridge of the nose; the zygomatic bones (cheekbones); and the lacrimal bones, which are small and support the tear ducts. These bones work together to protect vital structures and provide attachments for muscles involved in facial expressions, eating, and speaking.