An anatomical and histological study of mental nerve branches to the inferior labial glands.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: In this study, we aimed to reveal the detailed anatomy of mental nerve branches to the inferior labial glands. METHODS: Embalmed cadaveric heads were used in this study and the mental nerve branches to the inferior labial glands were dissected. Branches to the glands were then excised for histological observation. RESULTS: On all sides, the inferior labial glands were innervated by small branches arising from mental nerve branches that innervated the lower lip. No nerve branches to the inferior labial gland crossed the midline. Histological observation found that the tissue to the inferior labial gland were composed primarily of nerve fibers with a small number of surrounding vessels. Histological findings in examined specimens were consistent. CONCLUSION: The inferior labial glands were innervated by small branches of the mental nerve to the lower lip.