Understanding neural mechanisms that control orofacial pain, proper masticatory function, taste, speech, swallowing, and proprioceptive input to the temporomandibular joint and teeth is an important facet of dentistry. Neuroscience of Dentistry by renowned educators Barbara J. O’Kane and Laura C. Barritt provides foundational knowledge on these topics. The text integrates fundamental concepts of general neuroscience with vital information on neural mechanisms of the orofacial region and associated pain pathways.

The book is organized in two parts covering basic neuroscience and orofacial neuroscience. Part one is subdivided into four units on the central nervous system, brain and spinal cord gross anatomy, sensory systems, and motor systems. Part two features three units focused on orofacial structures and tissues, dental structures, and orofacial pain and anesthesia. Each generously illustrated, succinctly written, and consistently formatted chapter includes an introductory overview and learning objectives.

Key Highlights

• Throughout the book, relevant clinical correlations emphasize the relationship between basic neuroscience and clinical practice
• Concise, high-yield illustrations, schematics, charts, and tables enhance understanding of general and orofacial neuroanatomy concepts
• Helpful overviews at the beginning of each chapter highlight key concepts
• National board style questions at the end of each chapter emphasize board-relevant information that enables self-study

Neuroscience for Dentistry is a must-have resource for dental students taking neuroscience during their first or second year of dental school. It will also benefit other health science and dental hygiene students, as well as oral and maxillofacial surgery residents.

Contents

۱ Organization of the Nervous System
۲ Development of the Nervous System
۳ Neurohistology
۴ Neurophysiology
۵ Gross Topography of the Brain
۶ Blood Supply of the Brain
۷ Ventricles and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
۸ The Meninges
۹ Cranial Nerves
۱۰ Gross Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
۱۱ Anatomical Receptors and Nerve Fibers
۱۲ Somatosensory Systems PartI— Somatosensory Pathways of Body
۱۳ Somatosensory Systems Part II— Somatosensory Pathways of Head
۱۴ Pain
۱۵ Special Senses
۱۶ Direct Activation Pathways
۱۷ Indirect Activation Pathways
۱۸ Integrated Systems
۱۹ Development and Organization of Oropharyngeal Region
۲۰ Overview of Orofacial Pathways PartI— Trigeminal and Facial Nerves
۲۱ Overview of Orofacial Pathways Part II— Glossopharyngeal, Vagus, and Hypoglossal Nerves
۲۲ Neuromuscular Control of Mastication, Swallowing, and Speech
۲۳ Temporomandibular Joint
۲۴ Salivary Glands
۲۵ Teeth
۲۶ Orofacial Pain
۲۷ Local Anesthesia: Intraoral Injections