The primary function of the infraorbital nerve is to provide sensory innervation to specific areas of the face and mouth. This means it is responsible for transmitting feelings like touch, pressure, temperature, and pain from those regions back to the brain.
Areas Supplied by the Infraorbital Nerve
The infraorbital nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve, which is itself a division of the trigeminal nerve. Specifically, it provides sensation to the following areas, as stated in the reference material:
- Skin of the cheek: This includes the area directly below the eye and extending towards the mouth.
- Upper lip: The entire upper lip receives sensory input via this nerve.
- Lateral aspect of the nose: The side of the nose is also innervated by the infraorbital nerve.
- Ipsilateral upper teeth: This nerve also supplies sensation to the upper teeth on the same side of the face.
Location of the Infraorbital Nerve
The reference also states that the infraorbital nerve exits the infraorbital foramen, which is located on the maxilla. This foramen is approximately 7 mm below the infraorbital rim at the mid-pupillary line, which is why these landmarks are important in surgical or anesthetic procedures related to the infraorbital nerve. This area is often used for local anesthesia injections to numb these areas for dental work or facial surgery.
Summary
| Area Innervated | Function |
|---|---|
| Skin of the Cheek | Transmits sensory information |
| Upper Lip | Transmits sensory information |
| Lateral Aspect of Nose | Transmits sensory information |
| Ipsilateral Upper Teeth | Transmits sensory information |
Example
For example, if you touch your cheek, upper lip, the side of your nose, or feel pain in an upper tooth, the infraorbital nerve is the conduit for those sensations. These pathways are vital to allow you to interact with and sense your surroundings and facial structures.
