Facial Nerve

The Facial nerve (VII) emerges from the brain between the pons and medulla. It has two roots: a larger motor root and a smaller sensory root (nervus intermedius).

The motor root controls muscles of facial expression, the stylohyoid muscle, the posterior belly of the digastric muscle, and the stapedius muscle in the ear.

The sensory root (nervus intermedius) is responsible for: taste of the anterior 2/3 of the tongue, sensation from the external ear, and parasympathetic control of the submandibular and sublingual salivary glands, as well as lacrimal, nasal, palatine, and pharyngeal glands.

The Facial nerve travels through the internal acoustic meatus and facial canal, then branches into the greater petrosal nerve, the nerve to stapedius, and the chorda tympani.

The greater petrosal nerve carries parasympathetic fibers to glands in the nose, sinuses, palate, and lacrimal gland for tear production.

The nerve to stapedius carries motor fibers to the stapedius muscle in the middle ear, which helps dampen loud noises.

The chorda tympani nerve carries taste fibers from the anterior 2/3 of the tongue and parasympathetic fibers to the submandibular and sublingual salivary glands.

The Facial nerve plays a crucial role in dentistry by affecting the muscles involved in facial expressions and influencing salivary gland function. Understanding its anatomy and function is essential for diagnosing and treating conditions like Bell's palsy or salivary gland disorders.

A branch of the facial nerve that originates within the facial canal and carries taste sensation from the anterior 2/3 of the tongue.

A branch of the facial nerve responsible for innervating muscles of facial expression, with different branches supplying specific areas.

The nerve that carries signals to the posterior belly of the digastric muscle, which is involved in opening the mouth; it helps us chew.

The temporal branch of the facial nerve supplies muscles around the eye and forehead, enabling expressions like raising the eyebrows.

Supplies the muscles around the cheek, including the buccinator, which assists in chewing and blowing air.

Branches of the facial nerve that innervate muscles of the upper lip and nose, contributing to various facial expressions.

The branch of the facial nerve that provides innervation to the muscles of the lower lip, enabling expressions like pouting or pulling the mouth down.

Responsible for innervating the platysma muscle, which helps with neck movement and expressions like grimacing.

Damage occurring to the Facial nerve before it exits the skull, often caused by ear infections, stroke, or tumours.

Weakness or paralysis of facial muscles caused by a problem with the Facial nerve after it exits the skull. Common causes include parotid gland surgery, tumours or infections.

Symptoms of damage to the Facial nerve include drooping of the face, inability to close the eye, and difficulty controlling mouth movements.

Reduced saliva production, loss of taste on the front of the tongue, and dryness of the eyes are common consequences of Facial nerve damage.

The Facial nerve supplies motor function to the muscles of facial expression. It also carries taste sensation from the front of the tongue and helps control salivary and tear gland function.