Which of the following is a sensory nerve branch of the mandibular (V3) anterior trunk?

The buccal nerve is indeed a sensory nerve branch of the mandibular division (V3) of the trigeminal nerve, specifically arising from the anterior trunk. Its primary function is to provide sensory innervation to the skin and mucous membranes of the cheek, as well as the buccal gingiva in the posterior region of the mandible.

In contrast, the other options have different roles or categorizations. The masseteric nerve, for example, innervates the masseter muscle and primarily carries motor fibers rather than sensory fibers. Similarly, the deep temporal nerve, which supplies the temporalis muscle, is also a motor nerve. The medial pterygoid nerve has a motor function as it innervates the medial pterygoid muscle and carries some proprioceptive fibers from the muscles it affects. Therefore, the buccal nerve stands out as the correct answer due to its specific sensory functions in the context of the mandibular anterior trunk.