Anatomy & Histology · single question
During a submandibular gland procedure, anesthesia fails. Which nerve, if missed, is most commonly responsible for incomplete anesthesia in this region?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Mylohyoid nerve
D) Mylohyoid nerve — CORRECT.
The mylohyoid nerve is a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve that separates BEFORE it enters the mandibular foramen. It travels in the mylohyoid groove and supplies sensory fibers to the floor of the mouth, mylohyoid muscle, and can provide accessory innervation to the mandibular anterior teeth and associated soft tissues. It is commonly missed by the IANB, causing incomplete anesthesia — particularly relevant to submandibular region procedures.
A) Buccal nerve: Supplies buccal gingiva of mandibular posterior teeth — not primarily relevant to submandibular region anesthesia failure.
B) Facial nerve (VII): Motor nerve — provides no sensory supply to the teeth/floor of mouth.
C) Lingual nerve: Can be blocked separately; commonly anesthetized alongside IANB — not the primary missed nerve.
The mylohyoid nerve is a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve that separates BEFORE it enters the mandibular foramen. It travels in the mylohyoid groove and supplies sensory fibers to the floor of the mouth, mylohyoid muscle, and can provide accessory innervation to the mandibular anterior teeth and associated soft tissues. It is commonly missed by the IANB, causing incomplete anesthesia — particularly relevant to submandibular region procedures.
A) Buccal nerve: Supplies buccal gingiva of mandibular posterior teeth — not primarily relevant to submandibular region anesthesia failure.
B) Facial nerve (VII): Motor nerve — provides no sensory supply to the teeth/floor of mouth.
C) Lingual nerve: Can be blocked separately; commonly anesthetized alongside IANB — not the primary missed nerve.
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