Key Concepts in Orthodontics and Bone Structure

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to orthodontics, bone structure, and physiological functions.

Stomatognathic System

The interdependent system involving the form and function of teeth, jaw relationships, temporomandibular articulation, craniofacial conformation, and dental occlusion.

Static Occlusion

Refers to the relationship of teeth when they are occluded without any movement.

Dynamic Occlusion

Refers to the relationship of teeth and surrounding tissues during movement, particularly involving the temporomandibular joint.

Functional Osteology

The branch of anatomy that studies bones, including their structure, form, and response to functional forces.

Cortical Bone

The dense and solid outer layer of bone that provides strength and structure.

Trabecular Bone

The spongy, honeycomb-like inner structure of bone, providing support and space for bone marrow.

Bone Remodeling

The process of replacing old bone tissue with new bone tissue, maintaining bone mass and health throughout life.

Bone Modeling

The process of changing a bone’s size, shape, and position during growth.

Anabolic Process

The process of building up bone tissue, including deposition of minerals.

Catabolic Process

The process of breaking down bone tissue, including resorption of minerals.

Wolff's Law

The principle that bone adapts to the loads under which it is placed, becoming stronger in response to stress.

Centric Occlusion

The occlusion of the teeth when the jaw is closed in a manner that maximizes contact between upper and lower teeth.

Freeway Space

The distance between the maxillary and mandibular arches when the jaw is at rest, without occlusion.

Canine Guided Occlusion

Occlusion in which the canine tooth guides the movement of the mandible during lateral excursions.

Condyle

The rounded end of a bone that forms part of a joint, specifically the portion of the mandible that articulates with the skull.

Articular Disk

A fibrocartilaginous structure that divides the joint cavity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) into upper and lower compartments.

Mastication

The process of chewing food, which involves reduction of food size and mixing with saliva.

Deglutition

The act of swallowing, concerning the movement of food from the mouth to the esophagus.

Electromyography

A technique used to visualize the electrical activity of muscles, especially useful in studying muscle function.

Myotatic Reflex

A reflex contraction of a muscle in response to its stretching, helping to maintain muscle tone.

Centric Relation

The maxillary-mandibular relationship when the condyles are in the most posterior position in the glenoid fossae.

Skeletal Muscle

Voluntary, striated muscle responsible for movement and posture.

Smooth Muscle

Involuntary, non-striated muscle found in walls of internal organs.

Cardiac Muscle

Involuntary striated muscle found only in the heart.

Equilibrium Theory

A theory suggesting that a stable dental arrangement exists when the net pressures from the tongue, lips, and cheeks balance each other.

What is myology?

Myology is the study of muscles and their structure, function, and diseases.

What are the three types of muscle tissue?

The three types of muscle tissue are skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

What is the primary function of skeletal muscle?

The primary function of skeletal muscle is to facilitate voluntary movement of the body.

What distinguishes cardiac muscle from other muscle types?

Cardiac muscle is involuntary and has striations, and it is found only in the heart.

What role does smooth muscle play in the body?

Smooth muscle is responsible for involuntary movements in hollow organs, such as the intestines and blood vessels.