Family Friendly & Specialty Dentists in London, UK
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Structure and Origin
- The masseteric nerve is a branch of the mandibular nerve (CN V), which itself is a branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V).
- It passes superior to the lateral pterygoid muscle.
- It is located anterior to the temporomandibular joint.
- It crosses the mandibular notch alongside the masseteric artery.
Course
- The masseteric nerve passes posterior to the tendon of the temporalis muscle.
- It branches out upon the surface of the masseter muscle.
- It enters the masseter muscle.
- It passes anterior to the temporomandibular joint.
- It crosses the posterior portion of the mandibular notch.
Distribution
- The masseteric nerve provides motor innervation to the masseter muscle.
- It sends articular (sensory) branches to the temporomandibular joint.
Clinical Significance
- The masseteric nerve can be harvested and used to repair paralysis of the facial nerve (CN VII).
- It has potential as a donor for facial nerve anastomosis.
- The masseteric nerve can be used in the correction of lower facial paralysis.
- It has been studied for its potential in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
- The masseteric nerve has clinical importance in facial nerve function.
Notable Points
- The masseteric nerve originates from the mandibular nerve (CN V), which is a branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V).
- The masseteric nerve crosses the mandibular notch alongside the masseteric artery.
- The masseteric nerve enters the masseter muscle.
