COM Patient Assessment & Evaluation 2

Question 1

During clinical observation of lip posture, which finding is considered the primary indicator of habitual mouth breathing?

Accepted Answer

Slight parting of lips at rest with no visible tongue

Answer

Habitual mouth breathing is primarily indicated by habitual lip parting at rest, often accompanied by reduced lip tone.

Question 2

When assessing tongue resting posture, the clinician notes the tongue tip contacts the lower incisors. This is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Anterior tongue thrust

Answer

Anterior tongue thrust is characterized by the tongue tip resting against or between the lower (or upper) incisors rather than at the palatal spot.

Question 3

Which assessment tool is most commonly used in orofacial myology to quantify lip seal strength?

Accepted Answer

Button-pull test with calibrated gauge

Answer

The button-pull test using a calibrated force gauge provides an objective measure of orbicularis oris (lip seal) strength.

Question 4

A COM assessment reveals that a 9-year-old patient has an open bite. Which additional assessment is most critical before beginning orofacial myofunctional therapy?

Accepted Answer

Dental occlusion classification by an orthodontist

Answer

Skeletal or dental contributions to the open bite must be evaluated by an orthodontist before myofunctional therapy begins to determine appropriate case management.

Question 5

During nasal airflow assessment, the clinician holds a mirror under the patient's nose during quiet breathing. What does fogging on both sides of the mirror indicate?

Accepted Answer

Patent nasal airway bilaterally

Answer

Bilateral fogging on the mirror indicates airflow is exiting both nares, confirming a patent nasal airway.

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

(COM) Certified Orofacial Myologist Practice Test

COM Patient Assessment & Evaluation 2