Cranial Nerves for Swallowing — Ultra-Concise Q&A

Which cranial nerves are involved in swallowing?

CN V, VII, IX, X, and XII.

What is the overall role of cranial nerves in swallowing?

They provide motor and sensory control for safe and efficient swallowing.

CN V – Trigeminal

What is the main swallowing role of CN V?

Mastication and oral sensation.

Which muscles does CN V innervate for swallowing? M TVP M AD

Muscles of mastication, tensor veli palatini, mylohyoid, and anterior digastric.

What sensory function does CN V provide?

General sensation to the anterior tongue.

CN VII – Facial

What is the main swallowing role of CN VII?

Labial seal and oral pressure generation.

Which muscles does CN VII innervate for swallowing? FM S PD

Facial muscles, stylohyoid, and posterior digastric.

What sensory function does CN VII provide?

Taste to the anterior tongue.

CN IX – Glossopharyngeal

What is the main swallowing role of CN IX? P P M/S

Pharyngeal and palatal movement and sensation.

Which muscles does CN IX innervate? PM PC C

Palatal muscles (except tensor), pharyngeal constrictors, and cricopharyngeus.

What sensory function does CN IX provide?

Taste and general sensation to the posterior tongue.

CN X – Vagus

Why is CN X critical for swallowing?

It controls pharyngeal and laryngeal function.

Which muscles does CN X innervate? PM PC C ILM

Palatal muscles (except tensor), pharyngeal constrictors, cricopharyngeus, and intrinsic laryngeal muscles.

What sensory function does CN X provide?

Sensation to the posterior tongue and larynx.

CN XII – Hypoglossal

What is the main swallowing role of CN XII?

Tongue movement for bolus control and propulsion.

Which muscles does CN XII innervate? A TM -P

All tongue muscles except palatoglossus.

Does CN XII have a sensory role?

No, it is purely motor.