COM Assessment & Diagnosis of Orofacial Disorders 2

Question 1

During a clinical assessment, a patient presents with the tongue resting against the upper front teeth at rest. This is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Anterior tongue rest posture deviation

Answer

A tongue resting against or between the teeth at rest (not during swallowing) is classified as an abnormal tongue rest posture, not a tongue thrust.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the 'palatal suction' method for assessing tongue elevation capacity?

Accepted Answer

The patient sucks the tongue to the palate and holds while the jaw drops

Answer

Palatal suction requires the patient to adhere the tongue to the palate using suction and maintain contact while the mandible drops, revealing the range of tongue elevation.

Question 3

A child presents with an open mouth posture, dark under-eye circles, and restless sleep reported by parents. The COM's primary concern for further referral should be:

Accepted Answer

Pediatrician or ENT for airway obstruction

Answer

Open mouth posture combined with sleep disturbance and allergic shiners strongly suggests airway compromise, warranting ENT or pediatric evaluation before orofacial myology intervention.

Question 4

When assessing lip strength, a COM uses a lip-seal device. A reading significantly below age-matched norms indicates:

Accepted Answer

Inadequate orbicularis oris muscle function

Answer

Low lip-seal device readings indicate weakness or hypotonic function of the orbicularis oris, which is responsible for lip closure force.

Question 5

Which swallowing pattern is characterized by simultaneous contraction of the perioral and mentalis muscles visible during the swallow?

Accepted Answer

Immature or deviant swallow with muscular substitution

Answer

Visible perioral and mentalis muscle activity during swallowing indicates muscular substitution and is characteristic of an immature or deviant swallow pattern.

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

COM Assessment & Diagnosis of Orofacial Disorders 2