The genioglossus muscles originate from the superior mental spines on the posterior surface of the mandibular symphysis immediately superior to the origin of the geniohyoid muscles from the inferior mental spines (Fig. 8.256). From this small site of origin, each muscle expands posteriorly and superiorly. The most inferior fibers attach to the hyoid bone. The remaining fibers spread out superiorly to blend with the intrinsic muscles along virtually the entire length of the tongue.