Anatomy & Histology · single question

When anesthetizing the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), which anatomical landmark guides needle placement?

  1. Incisive foramen
  2. Coronoid notch and pterygomandibular raphe
  3. Hamular notch
  4. Mental foramen
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Coronoid notch and pterygomandibular raphe

The IAN block is guided by the coronoid notch and pterygomandibular raphe — the injection is lateral to the raphe at the height of the coronoid notch, targeting the mandibular foramen.
  • A. ❌ Incisive foramen is the landmark for the nasopalatine nerve block.
  • B. ✅ CORRECT – Pterygomandibular raphe and coronoid notch are the key intraoral landmarks for IAN block.
  • C. ❌ Hamular notch is used for posterior palatal seal in denture construction.
  • D. ❌ Mental foramen is for mental/incisive nerve blocks, not IAN block.

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