The anterior cervical lymph nodes are located between the anterior cervical thyroid and the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and there are many scattered lymph nodes in this area. In addition, there are also scattered lymph nodes on the posterior aspect of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, and lymph nodes on the posterior aspect of the neck between the posterior midline and the erector spinae muscle, extending from the neck next to the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra to the occipital ridge. If there is inflammation of the cheek or mouth due to pharyngitis or gum inflammation, it may cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the anterior or posterior part of the neck.