JAW REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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Jaw reflex refers to an involuntary and automatic response triggered by a stimulus that affects the muscles responsible for the movement of the jaw. It is a neurological reflex that involves the contraction or relaxation of the muscles and is essential for various functions such as chewing, speaking, and swallowing.
The jaw reflex is controlled by the trigeminal nerve, the fifth cranial nerve, which is responsible for carrying sensory information from the face, including the jaw, to the brain. This reflex is mediated by a complex network of nerve pathways involving different regions of the brain and spinal cord.
One commonly known example of the jaw reflex is the jaw jerk reflex, also referred to as the masseter reflex. This reflex can be elicited by tapping lightly on the chin or lower jaw, causing a brief and involuntary contraction of the jaw muscles. The jaw jerk reflex is an important clinical tool as it helps evaluate the integrity of the sensory and motor pathways involved in the reflex.
The jaw reflex is an integral part of the orofacial system and is crucial for various daily activities. Any abnormalities in the jaw reflex can indicate underlying neurological issues or damage to the nerves and muscles involved. Therefore, studying and understanding the jaw reflex is essential in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the orofacial region.
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A sudden contraction of the elevator muscles of the jaw, caused by a smart tap on a flat ruler laid across the teeth while the jaw hangs loosely open; jaw-jerk.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for JAW REFLEX
- haw reflex
- naw reflex
- maw reflex
- kaw reflex
- iaw reflex
- uaw reflex
- jzw reflex
- jsw reflex
- jww reflex
- jqw reflex
- jaq reflex
- jaa reflex
- jas reflex
- jae reflex
- ja3 reflex
- ja2 reflex
- jaw eeflex
- jaw deflex
- jaw feflex
- jaw teflex
Etymology of JAW REFLEX
The etymology of the word "jaw reflex" can be broken down into two parts: "jaw" and "reflex".
1. Jaw: The word "jaw" can be traced back to the Old English word "ceowan" or "ceow", which means "to chew". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "jawe", referring to the bone structure that encompasses the mouth. The word has remained relatively unchanged in its spelling and pronunciation throughout history.
2. Reflex: The word "reflex" has its roots in Latin. It originates from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent back" or "recoiled". This Latin term is derived from the prefix "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and the verb "flectere" (meaning "to bend").
