Prosthodontics & Occlusion · single question
Which lymph node is the PRIMARY (first-echelon) drainage site for an infection of the lower right third molar region?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Submandibular lymph node
- A. Correct. The mandibular posterior teeth and surrounding tissues drain PRIMARILY to the SUBMANDIBULAR lymph nodes (located in the submandibular triangle, deep to the platysma). The mandibular third molar region specifically drains first to submandibular nodes, then to deep cervical nodes.
- B. Retropharyngeal nodes drain the nasopharynx and posterior nasal cavity — not the mandibular third molar.
- C. Superior deep cervical nodes are SECONDARY drainage nodes that receive lymph from submandibular and submental nodes.
- D. Submental nodes drain the chin, floor of the mouth, lower lip (midline), and mandibular anterior teeth/gingiva — not the third molar region.
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