Tongue’s innervation is divided into three parts: anterior 2/3, posterior 1/3 and root of tongue. Foramen cecum marks the boundary of anterior 2/3 and posterior 1/3.

Motor Innervation

All of the motor innervation is provided by hypoglossal (CN XII) except for the platoglossus muscle which is provided by vagus CN X.

Sensory Innervation

Sensory innervation carries touch, pain, pressure and temperature sensations.

Area Sensory Innervation
Anterior 2/3 mandibular branch of trigeminal (CN V-3)
Posterior 1/3 glossopharyngeal (CN IX)
Posterior part of the root of tongue vagus (CN X)

Gustatory Innervation

Gustatory innervation carries taste sensations.

Area Gustatory Innervation
Anterior 2/3 chorda tympani of facial (CN VII)
Posterior 1/3 glossopharyngeal (CN IX)
Posterior part of the root of tongue, upper larynx, upper esophagus vagus (CN X)

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