Oral Biology & Pathology Flashcards

What is the histological difference between an epithelial lined and non-epithelial-lined jaw cyst?

Answer: Odontogenic cysts (e.g., radicular, dentigerous) are lined by epithelium derived from tooth-forming tissues; traumatic (simple bone) cysts have no epithelial lining

True jaw cysts (radicular, dentigerous, OKC) are lined by epithelium. The simple (traumatic) bone cyst is a pseudocyst — an empty cavity within bone with no epithelial lining, probably representing an intraosseous haematoma.

What is the significance of a raised serum alkaline phosphatase in dental/maxillofacial practice?

Answer: May indicate Paget's disease of bone (elevated osteoblastic activity) affecting the jaws — causing bony expansion, altered tooth eruption, and extraction complications

Elevated alkaline phosphatase in the context of bony jaw expansion, cotton-wool radiographic appearance, and altered teeth suggests Paget's disease of bone. Affected bone has increased vascularity, making extractions high-risk for haemorrhage.

What is the relationship between Streptococcus mutans and dental caries initiation?

Answer: S. mutans produces lactic acid from fermentable sugars, acid-tolerant, produces glucan biofilm matrix, and initiates enamel demineralisation — it is the primary initiator of coronal caries

S. mutans is the primary pathogen in the initiation of coronal dental caries. It metabolises sucrose to lactic acid, produces extracellular glucans enabling biofilm adherence, and is highly aciduric and acidogenic.

What is 'submandibular space infection' (Ludwig's angina) and why is it a dental emergency?

Answer: A rapidly spreading bilateral cellulitis of the floor of mouth that can cause airway obstruction — often originating from a mandibular molar infection

Ludwig's angina is a life-threatening bilateral submandibular/sublingual space infection, typically odontogenic (mandibular molars). Rapidly spreading inflammation raises the tongue, threatening the airway — emergency airway management may be required.

What is the mode of inheritance of dentinogenesis imperfecta?

Answer: Autosomal dominant — caused by mutations in DSPP (dentin sialophosphoprotein) gene

Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI types II and III) is inherited as autosomal dominant. It is caused by mutations in the DSPP gene. Affected teeth appear grey-blue/amber with bulbous crowns and obliterated pulp chambers.