Inferior mental spine - Oral cavity - Oral cavity - e-Anatomy
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Inferior mental spine

Spina mentalis inferior

  • Synonym: Inferior genial spine
  • Related terms: Inferior mental spine; Inferior genial spine

Definition

The inferior mental spines, also known as the inferior genial tubercles, are a pair of small bony protuberances on the inside (lingual) surface of the mandible. These are located near the lower part of the symphysis, one on each side of the midline, immediately below the superior mental spines. They act as attachment points for the geniohyoid muscles. These muscles play a key role in swallowing and speaking, and help move the hyoid bone and the mandible.

References

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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.

  • Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 8: Head and Neck’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 814.

  • Breeland G, Aktar A, Patel BC. Anatomy, Head and Neck, Mandible. [Updated 2023 Apr 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532292/

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