RDH Anatomy & Physiology for Dental Hygienists — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which bone forms the lower jaw and holds the lower teeth in place?
- Maxilla
- Mandible (Correct answer)
- Zygomatic bone
- Palatine bone
Correct answer: Mandible
The mandible is the single, largest, and strongest bone of the face, forming the lower jaw. It articulates with the temporal bones at the temporomandibular joints and contains the alveolar process that houses the lower teeth, making it central to mastication and facial structure.
Question 2: Which cranial nerve is primarily responsible for facial expressions?
- Trigeminal nerve (V)
- Facial nerve (VII) (Correct answer)
- Glossopharyngeal nerve (IX)
- Vagus nerve (X)
Correct answer: Facial nerve (VII)
The Facial nerve (Cranial Nerve VII) is primarily responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression. It allows for a wide range of movements, including smiling, frowning, blinking, and wrinkling the forehead, which are essential for non-verbal communication and emotional expression.
Question 3: What type of tissue primarily composes the gingiva?
- Cartilage
- Adipose tissue
- Dense fibrous connective tissue (Correct answer)
- Smooth muscle
Correct answer: Dense fibrous connective tissue
The gingiva, commonly known as the gums, is primarily composed of dense fibrous connective tissue covered by stratified squamous epithelium. This specialized tissue provides a firm, resilient barrier that protects the underlying alveolar bone and supports the teeth against mechanical forces during chewing.
Question 4: Which artery supplies blood to the maxillary teeth?
- Facial artery
- Lingual artery
- Inferior alveolar artery
- Posterior superior alveolar artery (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Posterior superior alveolar artery
The posterior superior alveolar artery is a direct branch of the maxillary artery, specifically responsible for supplying blood to the maxillary molars and premolars. It also provides blood to the surrounding gingiva and the alveolar bone in the posterior maxilla, ensuring their vitality and health.
Question 5: Which muscle elevates the mandible during chewing?
- Temporalis
- Masseter (Correct answer)
- Lateral pterygoid
- Buccinator
Correct answer: Masseter
The masseter is one of the most powerful muscles of mastication, originating from the zygomatic arch and inserting into the lateral surface of the mandible. Its primary function is to elevate the mandible, forcefully closing the jaw during chewing and biting.
Question 6: Which structure connects the cementum of a tooth to the alveolar bone?
- Gingival tissue
- Cementum
- Periodontal ligament (Correct answer)
- Dentin
Correct answer: Periodontal ligament
The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a specialized connective tissue that surrounds the root of a tooth and connects the cementum to the alveolar bone. It acts as a shock absorber during chewing, provides proprioceptive feedback, and supports the tooth within its socket.
RDH Anatomy & Physiology for Dental Hygienists
Which bone forms the lower jaw and holds the lower teeth in place?