INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

The stylopharyngeus is innervated by which cranial nerve?

1. VII

2. VIII

3. IX

4. X

The correct answer is: IX

The stylopharyngeus muscle is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve, which is cranial nerve IX. This muscle plays a crucial role in swallowing by elevating the pharynx and larynx during the swallowing process. Options A, B, and D are incorrect: - Cranial nerve VII (Facial nerve) is responsible for innervating the muscles of facial expression and taste sensation from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. - Cranial nerve VIII (Vestibulocochlear nerve) is responsible for transmitting signals related to hearing and balance from the inner ear to the brain. - Cranial nerve X (Vagus nerve) innervates muscles in the pharynx and larynx that are involved in swallowing and phonation.