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 anaesthesia 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.