Oral Mech Exams

Question 1

Why are oral mechanism exams administered?

Answer 1

to describe the structure and function of the oral mechanism for speech purposes

Question 2

What structures are examined during oral mech exam?

Answer 2

1. dentition
2. hard palate
3. soft palate/velum
4. fauces
5. pharynx
6. tongue

Question 3

What is inadequate velopharyngeal function associated with?

Answer 3

hypernasilty
weak production of stops, fricatives, and affricates
nasal emission of air

Question 4

define occlusion.

Answer 4

alignment of first molar teeth when jaws are closed

Question 5

define malocclusion

Answer 5

imperfect or irregular position of molar teeth when jaws are closed

Question 6

define normal occlusion (class I)

Answer 6

upper first molar (maxilla) is half a tooth BEHIND lower first molar (mandible)

Question 7

define malocclusion (class 2)

Answer 7

upper first molar (maxilla) is protruded and lower first molar (mandible) is receded

Question 8

define class III malocclusion

Answer 8

upper first molar (maxilla) is more than half a tooth BEHIND (mandible)
maxilla is receded and mandible is protruded