Oral Surgery · single question
Which branch of V3 has motor supply in the infratemporal fossa?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Nerve to masseter (masseteric nerve)
- A. Correct. The masseteric nerve, the deep temporal nerves, the nerve to the lateral pterygoid, and the nerve to the medial pterygoid are the motor branches of V3 in the infratemporal fossa. The masseteric nerve is the most commonly tested motor branch.
- B. The auriculotemporal nerve is primarily sensory — it carries sensory fibers from the TMJ, external ear, and parotid region, plus parasympathetic fibers (from CN IX via otic ganglion) to the parotid gland.
- C. The buccal nerve (long buccal nerve) is purely SENSORY to the buccal mucosa and skin; no motor function.
- D. The lingual nerve is purely sensory (general sensation to anterior 2/3 tongue; carries chorda tympani for taste).