Chapter 10

• What are the three types of epithelial membranes found in the oral cavity?


  Lining membrane, masticatory membrane, and specialised membrane.
• What is the function of the masticatory membrane?


  To provide a hard wearing surface that can withstand abrasive contact with food.
• What are the characteristics of the three types of oral mucous membranes?

  • Lining membrane: Red, smooth, moist; covers inner surfaces.
  • Masticatory membrane: Red, moist, ridged; covers gingivae and hard palate.
  • Specialised membrane: Discrete papillary structures; provides taste sensation.
• What is the buccal sulcus?


  The space between the posterior teeth and the mucous membrane lining the cheeks.
• What is the function of the soft palate?


  To seal off the oral cavity from the nasal cavity during swallowing.
• What is the term for the act of swallowing?

  Deglutition.
• What happens to the soft palate during swallowing?


  It rises up to seal off the nasopharynx from the oropharynx.
• How does the tongue assist in swallowing?


  By guiding the bolus to the back of the mouth and oropharynx.
• What is glossitis?


  Soreness and inflammation of the tongue.
• What are some causes of dysphagia?


  Psychological issues, xerostomia, oesophagitis, and central nervous system disorders.
• What are the functions of the teeth?


  • Cut and masticate food
  • Expose food surfaces to enzymes for digestion
  • Support oral soft tissues for clear speech
• How many sets of teeth do humans have?


  Two sets: primary (deciduous) and secondary (permanent).
• What is tooth morphology?


  The detailed anatomical shape of each tooth and its function.
• What are the four types of teeth in the secondary dentition?


  • Central and lateral incisors
  • Canine
  • First and second premolars
  • First, second, and third molars
• What are the three sections of each tooth?

  Crown, neck, and root(s).
• What is the hardest substance in the body?

  Enamel.
• What is the composition of enamel?


  96% mineral crystals, mainly calcium hydroxyapatite.
• How does dentine differ from enamel in terms of repair?


  Dentine can repair itself by laying down secondary dentine, while enamel cannot.
• What is the function of the pulp in a tooth?


  It contains the inner neurovascular tissue of the tooth.
• What is the amelodentinal junction (ADJ)?


  The junction between enamel and dentine layers of a tooth.
• How does enamel respond to acid attacks?


  It can remineralise its surface by taking in minerals from saliva.
• What is the significance of the blood vessels in the oral cavity?


  They allow rapid absorption and distribution of drugs administered buccally.
• What is the role of the hypoglossal nerve?


  It innervates all the muscles of the tongue.
• What happens to the tongue when there is excess fibrous tissue in the lingual frenum?


  The tongue is held more rigidly, restricting its movements.
• How does the structure of the tongue contribute to its functions?


  Its muscular composition allows for various movements essential for speech and swallowing.
• What is the appearance of the tongue's upper surface?


  It has various types of taste buds that allow recognition of basic tastes.
• How does the tongue aid in mastication?


  By assisting the buccinator muscles to package food into a bolus for easier chewing.
• What is the role of saliva in swallowing?


  It lubricates the bolus to facilitate swallowing.
• What is the primary function of the oesophageal muscles during swallowing?


  To move the bolus downwards by peristalsis into the stomach.
• What is xerostomia?


  Dry mouth syndrome due to reduced salivary flow.
• How does glossitis manifest in the tongue's appearance?


  It appears thin, smooth, and glazed instead of the normal thick layer of mucous membrane.
• What is the primary role of the tonsils?


  To act as part of the immune system in the throat area.
• What happens to the tonsils during a throat infection?


  They become inflamed and noticeable with a pitted surface.
• How does the structure of the tongue facilitate its functions?


  The muscular structure allows for complex movements necessary for speech and swallowing.
• What is the role of the uvula?


  To help seal off the nasal cavity during swallowing.
• How does the tongue contribute to oral hygiene?


  By moving around the oral cavity to dislodge food particles.
• What is the significance of the rapid absorption of drugs through the tongue's lining epithelium?


  It allows for quick delivery of medications, such as GTN tablets for angina.
• What is the primary function of the salivary glands?


  To produce saliva for digestion and oral health.
• How does the structure of the teeth relate to their function?


  The specific morphology of each tooth type is designed for its role in cutting, grinding, or tearing food.
• What is the relationship between the oral cavity's blood supply and drug absorption?


  The extensive blood supply allows for rapid absorption and distribution of drugs administered in the oral cavity.