In pericoronitis around a mandibular third molar, which nerve is most likely involved given its anatomic position?

Correct answer: A. Inferior alveolar nerve (IAN)

• A. Correct. The IAN runs in the mandibular canal just beneath the mandibular molars, so inflammation of an erupting third molar most directly involves it (the lingual nerve also lies close on the lingual aspect).
• B. Incorrect. The facial nerve supplies muscles of expression, not mandibular tooth sensation.
• C. Incorrect. The hypoglossal nerve is motor to the tongue, not sensory to the molar region.
• D. Incorrect. The glossopharyngeal nerve supplies the oropharynx/posterior tongue, not the molar pericoronal tissues.

Note: The lingual nerve lies very close to the lingual aspect of the third molar; the source keys the IAN.