Deep temporal nerves

The deep temporal nerves are two branches of the anterior division of the mandibular nerve that innervate the temporalis.[1]

Deep temporal nerves
Mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve
Details
FromAnterior division of mandibular nerve
InnervatesTemporalis, temporomandibular joint
Identifiers
Latinnervi temporales profundi
TA98A14.2.01.071
TA26254
FMA53187
Anatomical terms of neuroanatomy
Not to be confused with temporal branches of the facial nerve.

Structure

The deep temporal nerves are usually two in number and termed the anterior deep temporal nerve and posterior deep temporal nerve. They branch from the anterior division of the mandibular nerve and travel above the upper border of the lateral pterygoid muscle. They ascend to enter the temporal fossa and enter the deep surface of the temporalis.

Nerve pathway

Function

The deep temporal nerves provide motor innervation to the temporalis, which is a muscle of mastication that elevates and retracts the mandible. The deep temporal nerves also have articular branches which provide a minor contribution to the innervation of the temporomandibular joint.[1]

Variation

Sometimes, three deep temporal nerves are present branching from the anterior division of the mandibular nerve. In this case the extra nerve is situated between the anterior and posterior and called the middle deep temporal nerve.

The anterior deep temporal nerve is sometimes a branch of the buccal nerve.

The posterior deep temporal nerve is sometimes a branch of the masseteric nerve.

References
  1. Gray, Henry (2015). Gray's Anatomy : The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Standring, Susan (41 ed.). Philadelphia: Elsevier. pp. 544, 551. ISBN 978-0-7020-5230-9. OCLC 920806541.
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