RDA Head, Neck, and Oral Anatomy

Question 1

Which cranial nerve provides the primary sensory innervation to the teeth, gingivae, and most oral structures?

Accepted Answer

Cranial Nerve V (Trigeminal)

Answer

The trigeminal nerve (CN V) is the main sensory nerve of the face and mouth. Its three branches—ophthalmic, maxillary, and mandibular—supply sensation to the teeth, periodontium, lips, and most of the oral mucosa. This is why local anesthetic blocks target trigeminal branches.

Question 2

The parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands are collectively called:

Accepted Answer

Major salivary glands

Answer

The parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands are the three pairs of major salivary glands. They produce the bulk of saliva. Minor salivary glands are the hundreds of small glands scattered throughout the oral mucosa.

Question 3

The masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid are known as the muscles of:

Accepted Answer

Mastication

Answer

The four muscles of mastication—masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid—are responsible for moving the mandible during chewing. They are all innervated by the mandibular branch (V3) of the trigeminal nerve.

Question 4

Which structure marks the boundary between the hard palate and soft palate?

Accepted Answer

Vibrating line

Answer

The vibrating line is the imaginary line at the junction of the hard and soft palate, visible when the patient says 'ahh.' It is a critical landmark in complete denture construction and oral anatomy assessments.

Question 5

The Stensen's duct, which carries saliva from the parotid gland into the mouth, opens opposite which teeth?

Accepted Answer

Maxillary first and second molars

Answer

Stensen's duct (parotid duct) opens into the oral vestibule opposite the maxillary first and second molars on the buccal mucosa. The papilla is called the parotid papilla. Knowing this landmark is important when placing cotton rolls and during intraoral examination.

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

(RDA) Registered Dental Assistant Practice Test

RDA Head, Neck, and Oral Anatomy