the location of the
greater palatine foramen was reported by Matsuda.
In particular, it was opposite the maxillary second or third
molar or anywhere between the maxillary second and third
molar.A recent study112
confirmed the presence of the
foramen opposite the maxillary third molar (54.87%) distal to
the maxillary third molar (38.94%) and between the maxillary
second and third molar (6.19%).
Variations were also described for nerve supply; indeed, the
greater palatine nerve can sometimes gives additional
branches for the molar and premolar maxillary teeth. This
variation has to be considered for a complete and adequate
superior alveolar nerve block.
3.1.4. Anatomical variations of the nasopalatine nerve
The nasopalatine nerve is a branch of the sphenopalatine
nerve; it enters the nasal cavity through the sphenopalatine
foramen, passes across the roof of the nasal cavity and runs
obliquely downward and forward; it descends to the roof of the
mouth through the incisive canal and it emerges from the
nasopalatine foramen. Anatomical variations of this nerve are
related to the pattern of innervation. It usually provides
innervation to the palate and palatal gingiva near the canine
teeth. Nevertheless, in some cases it could give some branches
for the innervation of the incisor teeth.