Which nerve is targeted by the nasopalatine nerve block?

• A. Nasopalatine nerve
• B. Anterior superior alveolar nerve
• C. Greater palatine nerve
• D. Infraorbital nerve

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that the nasopalatine nerve block specifically targets the nasopalatine nerve as it travels to the anterior hard palate. The nasopalatine nerve is a branch of the maxillary division (V2) that courses through the sphenopalatine foramen into the nasal cavity and then along the nasal septum into the incisive canal, emerging on the hard palate to supply the mucosa of the anterior palate and the nasal septum. By depositing anesthetic near the incisive foramen, you block this nerve and numb the anterior palatal mucosa behind the maxillary central incisors.

The other nerves listed don’t follow this pathway or supply the same palatal region. The anterior superior alveolar nerve innervates the maxillary anterior teeth and their labial gingiva; the greater palatine nerve supplies the posterior hard palate; the infraorbital nerve covers the midface and the anterior teeth but via a different route. So the nerve actually targeted by the nasopalatine nerve block is the nasopalatine nerve.