Head and Neck Anatomy Flashcards

Which nerve provides the primary sensory innervation to the maxillary teeth and surrounding structures?

Answer: Maxillary nerve (V2)

The maxillary nerve (V2), the second division of the trigeminal nerve, provides sensory innervation to the maxillary teeth, palate, gingiva, and associated structures.

The parotid salivary gland's duct (Stensen's duct) opens into the oral cavity at which location?

Answer: Buccal mucosa opposite the maxillary second molar

Stensen's (parotid) duct opens on the buccal mucosa at a papilla opposite the maxillary second molar, delivering parotid saliva into the oral cavity.

Which muscle is responsible for elevating the mandible (closing the mouth) and is the most powerful muscle of mastication?

Answer: Masseter

The masseter is considered the most powerful muscle of mastication and is the primary muscle responsible for elevating the mandible to close the mouth.

The mental foramen is typically located on the mandible in which position?

Answer: Between the apex of the mandibular first and second premolars

The mental foramen typically opens on the lateral aspect of the mandible between the apices of the first and second premolars, transmitting the mental nerve and vessels.

Which salivary gland produces the highest proportion of total resting (unstimulated) saliva?

Answer: Submandibular gland

The submandibular gland produces approximately 60–65% of resting saliva, making it the primary contributor to unstimulated salivary flow.

What is the function of the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in dental procedures?

Answer: Provides sensory innervation to the mandibular teeth, lower lip, and chin

The inferior alveolar nerve (IAN), a branch of V3, provides sensory innervation to all mandibular teeth, the lower lip, and chin; blocking this nerve is the target of an inferior alveolar nerve block injection.