HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What nerve supplies the mandibular arch?

1. Medial pterygoid nerve

2. Inferior alveolar nerve

3. Maxillary nerve

4. Buccal nerve

The correct answer is: Inferior alveolar nerve

The correct answer is the inferior alveolar nerve, as it is primarily responsible for supplying sensation to the mandibular arch. This nerve branches off from the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V3) and innervates the lower teeth, including the molars, premolars, and incisors. It enters the mandible through the mandibular foramen, providing essential sensory feedback to the mandibular region. Understanding this nerve's role is crucial for dental health professionals because it affects various procedures, such as extractions and root canal treatments, which require precise knowledge of the local anatomy and nerve pathways. The involvement of the inferior alveolar nerve in the innervation of the mandibular arch emphasizes its significance in dental practice and patient management in the lower jaw. The medial pterygoid nerve innervates the medial pterygoid muscle and does not provide sensory information for the teeth or the majority of the mandible. The maxillary nerve is associated with the upper arch, while the buccal nerve primarily carries sensory information from the cheek area and does not encompass the mandibular teeth comprehensively. This clarity about the specific functions of these nerves helps delineate their roles in dental anatomy and practice.