An anatomical variation of mental nerve and foramen in a trauma patient

Mental nerve is the terminal branch of inferior alveolar nerve. It innervates chin, lower lip and gingiva. Anatomical variations of this nerve were reported previously. Nerve could be damaged during repair of mandibular fracture or elective surgical procedures. Maxillofacial surgeon should be cautious while performing surgery below the premolar tooth in mandible to prevent damage to the mental nerve.