Site of the lingual nerve in the third molar region in New Zealand European, Rhea Bhide

Injury to the lingual nerve, which provides sensation to the tongue and various other oral structures, can have detrimental effects. Its close proximity to the mandible makes it vulnerable in various dental and oral surgical procedures, including wisdom tooth extractions. Hence, lingual nerve protection is vital. Adequate nerve protection requires precise knowledge of the site of the nerve, which is not always consistent with textbook descriptions. Research is essential in discovering key anatomical differences specific to certain populations. This study focussed on the New Zealand European population. Data gathered via cadaveric dissections was used to estimate the location where the lingual nerve runs closest to the inner surface of the mandible in relation to three clinically distinct bony landmarks. The study produced a practically applicable guideline clinicians can utilise to estimate the anatomical position of the lingual nerve and thus mitigate the risk of inadvertent nerve damage.