Which of the following is NOT a branch of the mandibular (V3) nerve?

The infraorbital nerve is not a branch of the mandibular (V3) nerve; instead, it is a branch of the maxillary nerve (V2), which is the second division of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). The infraorbital nerve supplies sensation to the mid-facial region, including parts of the upper lip and cheek.

In contrast, the auriculotemporal, lingual, and inferior alveolar nerves are all branches of the mandibular nerve. The auriculotemporal nerve innervates the skin of the temporal region and parts of the external ear, the lingual nerve provides sensory innervation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue and the floor of the mouth, and the inferior alveolar nerve supplies sensation to the lower teeth and branches out to the chin and lower lip through the mental nerve. Recognizing the specific branches of each division of the trigeminal nerve is essential for understanding their anatomy and clinical significance in dental procedures.