Structure and Origin
- The mylohyoid nerve is a mixed (motor-sensory) branch of the inferior alveolar nerve.
- It arises just before it enters the mandibular foramen.
- The mylohyoid nerve is a branch of the mandibular nerve, which is itself a branch of the trigeminal nerve.
- The mylohyoid nerve is a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve.
- The inferior alveolar nerve is a branch of the mandibular nerve (CN V).
- The mandibular nerve is a branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V).
- The mylohyoid nerve arises just before it enters the mandibular foramen.
Course
- The mylohyoid nerve pierces the sphenomandibular ligament.
- It descends in a groove on the deep surface of the ramus of the mandible.
- When it reaches the under surface of the mylohyoid muscle, it gives branches to the mylohyoid muscle and the anterior belly of the digastric muscle.
Motor Distribution
- The mylohyoid nerve supplies the mylohyoid muscle.
- It supplies the anterior belly of the digastric muscle.
Sensory Distribution
- The mylohyoid nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin of the centre of the submental area.
- It may also provide some sensory innervation to the mandibular (lower) molar teeth.
Clinical Significance
- The mylohyoid nerve needs to be blocked during local anesthesia of the mandibular (lower) teeth to prevent pain during oral procedures.
- It may not be anesthetised during a block of the inferior alveolar nerve, causing pain.