The glossopharyngeal nerve is identified as which nerve number?

The glossopharyngeal nerve is known as cranial nerve number 9. This nerve plays a significant role in various functions including taste sensation from the posterior one-third of the tongue, and it is also involved in the regulation of blood pressure and respiratory functions through its connections to the cardiovascular and respiratory centers in the brain.

Recognizing cranial nerves by their specific numbers is crucial for dental nurses, as these nerves can have implications in dental procedures, particularly in anesthesia and understanding patient anatomy. Understanding the function and location of the glossopharyngeal nerve can assist dental professionals in preventing complications during oral surgery or other dental treatments that may influence this nerve.