Buccal Spaces Flashcards
What are the boundaries of the buccal space?
The boundaries are:
* Angle of the mouth (anterior)
* Masseter muscle (posterior)
* Zygomatic process of the maxilla and zygomaticus muscles (superiorly)
* Depressor anguli oris muscle (inferiorly)
* Buccinator muscle (medially)
* Skin and subcutaneous tissue (laterally)
The buccal space is a significant anatomical area in dentistry and oral surgery.
What anatomical structures are contained within the buccal space?
The buccal space contains:
* Buccal fat pad (Bichat’s fat pad)
* Parotid duct (Stenson’s duct)
* Anterior facial artery and vein
* Transverse facial artery and vein
These structures are essential for understanding the implications of infections and surgical interventions in the buccal space.
How does the buccal space communicate with other spaces?
The buccal space communicates superiorly with:
* Infraorbital space
* Canine space
Understanding these communications is crucial for diagnosing and treating infections in the facial region.
What is a common etiology for a buccal space abscess?
A buccal space abscess may originate from:
* Infected root canals of posterior teeth of the maxilla and mandible.
This highlights the importance of dental health in preventing infections that can spread to the buccal space.
What are the clinical signs of a buccal space abscess?
Clinical signs include:
* Swelling of the cheek
* Extension from the zygomatic arch to the inferior border of the mandible
* Red and taut skin
* Possible fluctuation of the abscess
* Severe pain during intra- and extraoral palpation
Recognizing these signs can aid in timely diagnosis and treatment.
What is the preferred surgical treatment for a buccal space abscess?
The preferred surgical treatment is:
* Horizontal intraoral incision, parallel to Stenson’s duct.
This method minimizes the risk of injury to the salivary duct and potential complications.
When is an extraoral incision indicated in the treatment of a buccal space abscess?
An extraoral incision is indicated when:
* Intraoral access cannot ensure adequate drainage
* The pus is near the skin
Understanding the necessity for different incision approaches is critical in managing buccal space abscesses effectively.
True or False: In severe cases of buccal space abscess, both intraoral and extraoral incisions may be made.
True
This approach is sometimes necessary for effective drainage and management of the infection.
Fill in the blank: The buccal space contains the _______ fat pad.
Bichat’s
Bichat’s fat pad is an important anatomical landmark in the buccal space.
What muscles define the medial boundary of the buccal space?
The medial boundary is defined by:
* Buccinator muscle
The buccinator muscle plays a significant role in oral function and is a key landmark in surgeries involving the buccal space.
