Mental protuberance, also known as the mental eminence or the mental tubercle, is a small projection located on the anterior surface of the mandible, or lower jaw bone. It is a prominent and easily palpable structure that serves as a reference point for clinicians in dental and oral surgery.
Structure
The mental protuberance is formed by a bony protuberance that projects from the mandible, specifically from the mandibular body. It is located on the symphysis menti, which is the midline of the mandible. The mental protuberance is situated just below the lower lip and above the chin, and is positioned symmetrically on either side of the midline.
It is covered by a thin layer of skin and subcutaneous tissue. It is innervated by the mental nerve, which is a branch of the inferior alveolar nerve. The mental nerve supplies sensory innervation to the skin and mucosa of the lower lip, chin, and gums.
Location
As mentioned earlier, the mental protuberance is located on the symphysis menti, which is the midline of the mandible. It is situated just below the lower lip and above the chin. The mental protuberance can be easily palpated by pressing on the skin just below the lower lip.
Function
The mental protuberance serves as a reference point for clinicians in dental and oral surgery. It is a common site for the injection of local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, to numb the skin and mucosa of the lower lip, chin, and gums. The mental protuberance is also a common site for the placement of dental implants and the insertion of oral tubes, such as nasogastric tubes and tracheostomy tubes.
In addition to its clinical significance, the mental protuberance also plays a role in facial expression and speech. It helps to form the contours of the lower lip and chin, which contribute to the overall shape and appearance of the face. The mental protuberance is also involved in the production of certain speech sounds, such as “m” and “b,” as it is used to close the oral cavity and form a seal against the upper teeth.
