Lingula of mandible

Lingula of Mandible

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Lingula of mandible

The Lingula of Mandible is a significant anatomical structure in the human anatomy, specifically in the mandible, or lower jawbone. It is a small, tongue-shaped bony prominence, which gives it its name, as 'lingula' is derived from the Latin word for 'little tongue'.

Anatomy

The lingula of the mandible is located on the medial (inner) surface of the mandibular ramus, near the anterior margin. It is a small, tongue-shaped process that projects forward immediately superior to the mandibular foramen. The lingula serves as an attachment point for the sphenomandibular ligament, a ligament of the temporomandibular joint.

Clinical Significance

The lingula of the mandible is of clinical importance in dentistry and oral surgery. It serves as a landmark for the administration of a mandibular nerve block, a common procedure used to achieve anesthesia in the lower jaw. The lingula's position relative to the mandibular foramen is also crucial in procedures such as wisdom tooth extraction and corrective jaw surgery.

See Also

• Mandible
• Mandibular foramen
• Sphenomandibular ligament
• Temporomandibular joint