Lingula of mandibule

The lingula of mandible is a sharp tongue-shaped bony projection found on the inner (medial) side of the ramus of mandible. It emerges at the front edge of the inferior alveolar foramen, also known as the mandibular foramen, and partially covers over it. It’s orientation makes it point towards the head of the mandible.

This feature is crucial because it is the attachment point for the sphenomandibular ligament, which connects to the sphenoid bone at the skull's base. The lingula's position and related structures make it a key point of reference in dental surgery and anesthesia, especially when administering a mandibular nerve block. This involves injecting a local anesthetic near the mandibular foramen to numb the lower jaw.