INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What muscle retracts the tongue?

Styloglossus
Hyoglossus
Genioglossus
Glossopharyngeal

The correct answer is: Styloglossus

The correct answer is the Styloglossus muscle. This muscle originates from the styloid process of the temporal bone and inserts into the lateral aspects of the tongue. Its primary function is to retract the tongue, pulling it backward and slightly upward. The Hyoglossus muscle (option B) depresses and retracts the tongue, the Genioglossus muscle (option C) protracts and depresses the tongue, and the Glossopharyngeal nerve (option D) is a cranial nerve responsible for taste sensation and other functions in the tongue and pharynx.