Which sinus is located in the cheeks?

The maxillary sinus, located in the cheeks, is the largest of the paranasal sinuses. It is situated within the maxilla, which is the bone that forms the upper jaw and holds the upper teeth. Because of its anatomical position, the maxillary sinus plays a crucial role in the respiratory system and helps to lighten the weight of the skull. It is also directly involved in the drainage of mucus into the nasal cavity, which is vital for maintaining sinus health.

Understanding the location of the maxillary sinus is important not only for anatomical studies but also for clinical practices, such as sinus surgery or addressing sinus infections, which can often originate from this area. Thus, recognizing the maxillary sinus's association with the cheeks is essential for anyone studying anatomy, otolaryngology, or related health sciences.