Q: Which pharynx is NOT visible during an intraoral examination?
(A). Oropharynx
(B). Laryngopharynx
(C). Nasopharynx
The pharynx (throat) is a muscular tube that serves as a respiratory and digestive tract. It is composed of 3 different parts:
- The nasopharynx is located superior to the soft palate and contains the nasal cavity.
- The oropharynx is located between the soft palate and opening of the pharynx.
- The laryngopharynx is located below the oropharynx. During an intraoral examination, the clinician cannot see the laryngopharynx as it is located in a deeper location.
You might remember those names easily simply by understanding what the first component of each region means:
- Naso – nose, so the nasopharynx is located behind your nose.
- Oro – oral (mouth), so the oropharynx is located behind your mouth.
- Laryngo – larynx (vocal box), so it is “in” the throat region.
Answer: (B). Laryngopharynx
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