Exam 35: Lymphatics and Spread of Dental Infection

Infections at the apices of the teeth cause swelling either mesial or distal to the involved tooth. A swelling of apical origin occurring in the vestibule is sometimes called a gumboil.

When a throat infection begins, the first group of nodes to become involved is the retropharyngeal nodes because they are behind the throat wall.

Maxillary infections around the eye or cheek can spread to the lateral pharyngeal space.

Which of the following cannot easily be palpated?

A fascial infection of the submental space would spread to which space?

The distribution pattern of lymphatic vessels has been well determined by scientists. This information can be used as a diagnostic tool and as a means of slowing the spread of infection and cancer.

Infections of mandibular molars spread into the submental space because the disease breaks out of the below the mylohyoid line.

The maxillary premolars are drained by the submental nodes.

The lymphatic system is part of the overall lymphoid system. The immune system, which includes the blood vessels, is a separate system.

Lymphatic fluid empties into which system?

A swelling below the eye is MOST likely caused by infection from the

A swelling in the cheek is usually related to an infection in the maxillary canine.

Lymph nodes are grouped together into small clusters. The clusters are interconnected by connective tissue.

Bacteria and other microorganisms that have invaded tissue spaces are often prevented from causing illness because the lymphatic system filters fluids and combats infection during periods of rest.

The mandibular incisors are drained by which nodes?

The mandibular third molars drain into the upper deep cervical nodes. These nodes drain into the retropharyngeal nodes located behind the throat wall.

When blood plasma filtrate enters the lymphatic tubules, it is called lymphatic fluid. Lymphatic fluid empties into the venous system at the junction of the carotid veins.

Lymph nodes fighting an infection become enlarged and tender because lymphocytes within the node have begun multiplying and combating infection.

Which cancerous structure would be MOST difficult to successfully treat?

All lymphatic vessels in the head and neck area ultimately drain into the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins.