Buccal Nerve

The Buccal Nerve: A Comprehensive Guide

What is the Buccal Nerve?

The buccal nerve is a sensory nerve of the face, arising from the mandibular nerve (CN V3), which is itself a branch of the trigeminal nerve.

It is the only sensory branch of the anterior mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve, innervating the cheek’s major part.

Functions of the Buccal Nerve

The buccal nerve is responsible for sending sensory information from the cheek's skin and mucosal lining to the brain.

This sensory information includes touch, temperature, and pain.

The buccal nerve also plays a role in salivary gland secretion.

Anatomy of the Buccal Nerve

The buccal nerve exits the skull through the mandibular foramen, located on the inner aspect of the mandible.

It then runs forward and downward, passing between the two heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle.

The buccal nerve then enters the cheek, where it divides into multiple branches that innervate the cheek's skin, mucous membrane, and salivary glands.

Clinical Significance of the Buccal Nerve

The buccal nerve can be damaged during dental procedures, such as the extraction of wisdom teeth or the placement of dental implants.

Damage to the buccal nerve can result in numbness or pain in the cheek.

In some cases, damage to the buccal nerve can also lead to difficulty chewing or speaking.

Conclusion

The buccal nerve is an important sensory nerve of the face, responsible for sending sensory information from the cheek to the brain.

Damage to the buccal nerve can result in numbness or pain in the cheek, as well as difficulty chewing or speaking.

Understanding the anatomy and function of the buccal nerve is essential for clinicians involved in procedures that could potentially affect this nerve.