Which nerve innervates the buccal soft tissues of the molars?

The correct choice indicating the nerve that innervates the buccal soft tissues of the molars is the buccal nerve. The buccal nerve is a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V3) and specifically supplies sensation to the buccal mucosa and soft tissues adjacent to the molars in the mandible.

Understanding the anatomy and the role of the buccal nerve is essential in dental practice, particularly in local anesthesia administration, as it helps ensure adequate pain control in the region surrounding the molars. In contrast, the other options do not serve this specific function:

The mental nerve primarily innervates the chin and lower lip and does not provide sensation to the molars. The lingual nerve, while it provides sensation to the tongue and the lingual soft tissues, does not innervate the buccal side. Lastly, the inferior alveolar nerve runs within the mandible and provides sensation to the lower teeth but is not responsible for the buccal soft tissues directly.