COM Assessment & Diagnosis of Orofacial Disorders 3

Question 1

A COM uses the Tongue Tie Rating Scale (Kotlow or similar). A Class IV restriction means:

Accepted Answer

The restriction involves a submucosal or posterior tethered oral tissue

Answer

Class IV in Kotlow's classification describes a submucosal (posterior) tongue tie where the restriction is not visible but limits posterior tongue elevation.

Question 2

What is the clinical significance of assessing the 'swallowing frequency at rest' during orofacial myology evaluation?

Accepted Answer

Excessive dry swallows at rest may indicate a habitual swallowing pattern or airway-related dysfunction

Answer

Monitoring swallowing frequency at rest can reveal abnormal patterns such as excessive saliva management issues or compensatory behaviors linked to tongue posture or airway problems.

Question 3

Which assessment tool is specifically designed to evaluate nasal airway patency in a quick clinical setting?

Accepted Answer

Glatzel mirror test

Answer

The Glatzel mirror test involves placing a cold mirror under the nares to visualize condensation patterns, providing a quick clinical estimate of nasal airflow.

Question 4

A patient shows a crossbite on the right side and the COM observes the tongue habitually resting to the left. What is the most likely relationship between these findings?

Accepted Answer

The leftward tongue posture likely contributed to underdevelopment of the left palatal arch

Answer

The tongue at rest to the left provides insufficient lateral support to the left palate, potentially contributing to constriction on that side and crossbite development.

Question 5

During a clinical interview for a 9-year-old, the parent reports the child frequently breathes through the mouth during the day. The COM's next step should be:

Accepted Answer

Document the observation and refer to a physician before initiating therapy

Answer

Mouth breathing requires medical clearance to rule out obstructive causes (allergies, enlarged adenoids/tonsils) before myofunctional therapy can be effective.

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

COM Assessment & Diagnosis of Orofacial Disorders 3