Superior mental spine
Spina mentalis superior
- Synonym: Superior genial spine
- Related terms: Superior mental spine; Superior genial spine
Definition
The superior mental spines, also known as the superior 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. These anatomical features serve as attachment points for an extrinsic muscle of the tongue called the genioglossus muscle, that helps in protruding the tongue forwards.
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/
