The branches of the mandibular nerve include several mixed (both sensory and motor) and sensory nerves that innervate various structures in the face and oral cavity.
Branches of the Mandibular Nerve
The mandibular nerve (CN V3), is the third branch of the trigeminal nerve, and is a mixed nerve containing both sensory and motor fibers. Here's a breakdown of some of its key branches:
Sensory Branches:
- Buccal Nerve: The buccal nerve is a sensory nerve.
Mixed (Sensory and Motor) Branches:
- Masseteric Nerve: The masseteric nerve is a mixed nerve.
- Deep Temporal Nerves: The deep temporal nerves are mixed nerves.
Motor Branches:
- Lateral Pterygoid Nerve: The lateral pterygoid nerve is a motor nerve.
| Nerve | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Buccal Nerve | Sensory | Provides sensory innervation to the skin and mucous membrane of the cheek. |
| Masseteric Nerve | Mixed | Innervates the masseter muscle (muscle of mastication). |
| Deep Temporal Nerves | Mixed | Innervate the temporalis muscle (muscle of mastication). |
| Lateral Pterygoid Nerve | Motor | Innervates the lateral pterygoid muscle (muscle of mastication). |
