Cranial bones background

Cranial bones help to compose the skull, which protects the brain from injury. Some portions of cranial bones are spongy, but still remain strong.

Frontal bone

The frontal bone is found at the forehead. It protects the frontal lobe of the brain. In addition, the frontal bone consist of the nasal cavities. Injury to the frontal bone can cause significant brain injury.

Parietal bone

There are two parietal bones found in the human skull and they meet at the frontal lobe, protecting  the parietal lobe of the brain. The parietal bones are two of the strongest bones in the human body.

Temporal bone

The Temporal bone is composed of four parts. Some portions of the bone are hard, as they provide protection to vital areas of the brain and other portions are spongy. Injuries near the temple, can cause severe brain injury of they occur near the spongy portion of the temporal bone.

Occipital bone

The occipital bone is located near the base of the skull, at the back of the head. The occipital bone also has a hole which contributes to brain function. Injuries to this portion of the head frequently occur in car accidents, but the occipital bone is strong enough to allow for most individuals to avoid severe brain injury.

Sphenoid bone

The sphenoid bone is butterfly shaped and protects the pituitary gland. Damage to this area can cause the brain to have severe consequences for bodily functions which are run by the pituitary gland.

Ethmoid bone

The ethmoid bone is a cranial bone which is located near the eyes and nose. The ethmoid bone is spongy and helps to form the eye sockets.