Lingula of mandible

Anatomical feature of the mandible

Lingula of mandible

Latin	lingula mandibulae
System	Skeletal system

The lingula of mandible (lingula mandibulae) is a small, tongue-shaped bony projection on the medial surface of the mandible. It is located near the entrance of the mandibular foramen, which is an important anatomical landmark in the oral cavity.

Anatomy

The lingula of mandible is situated above the mandibular foramen, which is the opening through which the inferior alveolar nerve and inferior alveolar artery pass. The lingula serves as an attachment point for the sphenomandibular ligament, a ligament that extends from the spine of the sphenoid bone to the lingula.

Function

The primary function of the lingula of mandible is to provide an attachment site for the sphenomandibular ligament. This ligament plays a role in stabilizing the mandible and supporting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Clinical significance

The lingula of mandible is an important landmark for dental professionals, particularly in the administration of inferior alveolar nerve block anesthesia. Accurate identification of the lingula can help in effectively numbing the inferior alveolar nerve to perform various dental procedures.

See also

• Mandible
• Mandibular foramen
• Inferior alveolar nerve
• Sphenomandibular ligament
• Temporomandibular joint