Lingual Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The lingual nerve is a nerve of the head and neck region. It is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve. It provides sensation to parts of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The lingual nerve arises from the posterior division of the mandibular nerve high in the infratemporal fossa. It descends posterior to the lateral pterygoid muscle and anterior to the inferior alveolar nerve. At the lower border of the lateral pterygoid, the nerve is joined by the chorda tympani (a branch of the facial nerve). It then passes between the medial pterygoid and the ramus of the mandible to enter the oral cavity just inferior to the third molar tooth – where it is particularly vulnerable to injury. From here, it runs between the mylohyoid and hyoglossus muscles. The lingual nerve then passes lateral to the submandibular duct, loops underneath it, and ascends on its medial side to reach the tongue. The lingual nerve terminates by dividing into multiple branches that supply the anterior two-thirds of the tongue with general sensation and taste (via the chorda tympani). By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The course of the lingual nerve and its relations. Sensory Supply The sensory supply of the anterior tongue and floor of the mouth is divided into contributions from the lingual nerve itself and from fibres of the chorda tympani that travel within it. Lingual Nerve The lingual nerve carries general sensory fibres to: The anterior two-thirds of the tongue The mucosa of the floor of the mouth The gingivae associated with the mandibular teeth Chorda Tympani Via the chorda tympani, the lingual nerve also carries: Special sensory fibres for taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue Parasympathetic fibres to the submandibular and sublingual glands Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 2General sensation and taste innervation to the tongue Frequent questions What is the lingual nerve and what is its primary function? The lingual nerve is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve that provides sensory innervation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and the floor of the mouth. It plays a crucial role in conveying general sensation and taste information. What structures does the lingual nerve course between during its pathway? The lingual nerve descends between the medial pterygoid muscle and the ramus of the mandible, entering the oral cavity just below the third molar tooth. This anatomical position makes it particularly susceptible to injury during dental procedures. What sensory supplies are provided by the lingual nerve? The lingual nerve supplies general sensory fibres to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, the mucosa of the floor of the mouth, and the gingivae associated with the mandibular teeth. This innervation is essential for the perception of touch, pain, and temperature in these areas. How does the chorda tympani relate to the lingual nerve? The chorda tympani, a branch of the facial nerve, joins the lingual nerve and contributes special sensory fibres for taste to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. It also carries parasympathetic fibres that innervate the submandibular and sublingual salivary glands. Why is the lingual nerve considered vulnerable to injury? The lingual nerve is particularly vulnerable to injury as it passes just inferior to the third molar tooth, an area often involved in dental extractions. Damage to this nerve can lead to loss of sensation or altered taste in the anterior portion of the tongue. Rate This Article