8. Oral Functions 2 (Senses)

Question 1

Function of the gag reflex

Answer 1

Acts to prevent material entering the pharynx

Question 2

Definition of Bell’s palsy

Answer 2

Term coined for any type of facial paralysis that does not have any associated causes such as tumours, trauma and salivary gland inflammation

Question 3

Causes of Bell’s palsy (6)

Answer 3

Infections (HSV/cold sores)
Otitis media
Diabetes
Trauma
Toxins 
LA side effect

Question 4

Cause of Bell’s palsy due to LA injection (3)

Answer 4

Injection given too far distally
Parotid gland penetrated
LA diffuses through loose glandular tissue affecting all five terminal branches if CN VII

Question 5

When may truisms occur

Answer 5

When an LA needle hits a muscle

Question 6

Function of periodontal mechanoreceptors

Answer 6

Allow finer discrimination of food texture, tooth contacts and levels of functional loading

Question 7

Loss of periodontal mechanoreception influences (4)

Answer 7

Control of jaw function
Precision of magnitude
Direction
Rate of occlusal load application

Question 8

Definition of interdental discrimination

Answer 8

Ability to gauge the extent of mouth opening, allowing coordination of masticatory movements

Question 9

Types of receptors that contribute to interdental size discrimination (3)

Answer 9

TMJ receptors
Muscle receptors
PDL receptors

Question 10

Function of nociceptors

Answer 10

Respond to intense (noxious) stimuli usually associated with pain

Question 11

Definition of proprioception

Answer 11

Awareness of position and orientation of body parts

Question 12

Types of proprioceptors (3)

Answer 12

Joint receptors
Muscle receptors
Periodontal receptors

Question 13

Definition of anosmia

Answer 13

Partial or total loss of sense of smell