Knowra Stomatognathic system Stomatognathic system The integrated system of the mouth, teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joints, muscles, and associated tissues that supports chewing, speaking, and swallowing.
Temporomandibular joint : The paired joints connecting the mandible to the temporal bones of the skull. These joints let the lower jaw move during chewing and speech.
Mandibular movement : Movement of the lower jaw through rotation, translation, and combined paths. Its controlled paths make biting, chewing, and speech possible.
Temporomandibular disorders : A group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints, masticatory muscles, or related structures. These disorders can disrupt jaw movement and cause pain in the system.
Masticatory system : The structures and functions directly involved in chewing, including the jaws, teeth, joints, and chewing muscles. It overlaps strongly but names chewing more narrowly than the stomatognathic system.
Mastication : The process of breaking food into smaller pieces by chewing. It is the system’s main mechanical task.
Trigeminal nerve : The fifth cranial nerve, carrying facial sensation and motor signals to muscles of mastication. It supplies jaw-moving muscles and conveys sensation from oral structures.
Dental occlusion : The relationship between the teeth of the upper and lower dental arches during contact. Clinicians assess tooth contacts when diagnosing or restoring chewing function.
Digestive system : The organs and processes that ingest food, digest it, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste. The mouth begins digestion, but the broader system extends far beyond it.
Occlusion (dentistry) : The contact relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws close. Tooth contacts shape how chewing forces pass through the jaws.
Periodontal mechanoreceptor : A sensory receptor in the tissues around a tooth that detects mechanical forces. Its feedback helps regulate bite force and detect tooth contact.
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