Digestive System and Oral-Systemic Links Practice Questions
20 free Digestive System and Oral-Systemic Links practice questions for the CDA. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
Which digestive organ is primarily responsible for nutrient absorption?
- A Stomach
- B Small intestine
- C Large intestine
- D Esophagus
Correct answer: Small intestine
The small intestine absorbs most nutrients through its villi and microvilli. It is the main site of digestion and nutrient uptake.
Which condition is characterized by erosion of enamel due to chronic gastric acid exposure?
- A Attrition
- B Abrasion
- C Perimylolysis
- D Fluorosis
Correct answer: Perimylolysis
Perimylolysis results from chronic exposure of teeth to gastric acid, often due to reflux or eating disorders. It leads to smooth, cupped-out enamel surfaces.
Which digestive enzyme is found in saliva and begins the breakdown of carbohydrates?
- A Pepsin
- B Amylase
- C Lipase
- D Trypsin
Correct answer: Amylase
Salivary amylase begins carbohydrate digestion in the mouth. It breaks down starches into simpler sugars.
Which organ produces bile that aids in fat digestion?
- A Pancreas
- B Stomach
- C Liver
- D Gallbladder
Correct answer: Liver
The liver produces bile, which helps emulsify fats for digestion. The gallbladder stores and releases bile.
Which systemic condition linked to poor oral health can increase the risk of preterm birth?
- A Hepatitis
- B Gingivitis
- C Periodontal disease
- D Ulcerative colitis
Correct answer: Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth. Inflammatory mediators may enter systemic circulation.
Which part of the digestive tract is lined with keratinized epithelium similar to that found in parts of the oral cavity?
- A Stomach
- B Small intestine
- C Esophagus
- D Large intestine
Correct answer: Esophagus
The esophagus contains stratified squamous epithelium, similar to oral mucosa. However, most oral mucosa varies between keratinized and non-keratinized regions.
Helicobacter pylori infection is associated with which oral manifestation?
- A Recurrent aphthous ulcers
- B Black hairy tongue
- C Halitosis
- D Geographic tongue
Correct answer: Halitosis
H. pylori is linked to halitosis in some cases. It is also strongly associated with gastric ulcers and gastritis.
Which digestive disease is commonly associated with angular cheilitis and glossitis due to nutrient deficiencies?
- A Crohn’s disease
- B Celiac disease
- C Peptic ulcer disease
- D GERD
Correct answer: Celiac disease
Celiac disease can lead to malabsorption of iron and B vitamins, causing angular cheilitis and glossitis. Oral symptoms may be early indicators.
Which condition results in severe xerostomia and increased caries risk due to autoimmune gland destruction?
- A Hepatitis B
- B Sjögren’s syndrome
- C Irritable bowel syndrome
- D Pancreatitis
Correct answer: Sjögren’s syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome damages salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to dry mouth and increased caries susceptibility. It is an important oral-systemic connection.
Which structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?
- A Soft palate
- B Epiglottis
- C Uvula
- D Lingual tonsil
Correct answer: Epiglottis
The epiglottis closes over the laryngeal opening during swallowing, preventing aspiration. It is a key protective mechanism.
Chronic liver disease can manifest orally as:
- A Petechiae and easy bleeding
- B Diffuse enamel fluorosis
- C Reticular lichen planus
- D Multiple Fordyce granules
Correct answer: Petechiae and easy bleeding
Liver disease affects clotting factor production, leading to petechiae and excessive bleeding. Oral examinations may reveal early signs.
Which digestive disorder can cause a smooth, shiny tongue due to loss of filiform papillae?
- A Chronic GERD
- B B12 deficiency
- C Cholecystitis
- D Appendicitis
Correct answer: B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to atrophic glossitis, producing a smooth, red tongue. It is often related to malabsorption in the digestive system.
Which part of the digestive system absorbs water and forms solid waste?
- A Stomach
- B Small intestine
- C Large intestine
- D Duodenum
Correct answer: Large intestine
The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes, forming feces. It also houses beneficial gut bacteria.
Which systemic disease linked to periodontal disease also contributes to impaired wound healing?
- A Diabetes mellitus
- B Appendicitis
- C GERD
- D Ulcerative colitis
Correct answer: Diabetes mellitus
Diabetes mellitus is strongly associated with periodontal disease. Poor glycemic control reduces immune response and healing capacity.
Which structure connects the mouth to the stomach?
- A Larynx
- B Pharynx
- C Esophagus
- D Trachea
Correct answer: Esophagus
The esophagus transports food from the pharynx to the stomach via peristalsis. It is part of the upper digestive tract.
Patients with GERD may present with which common oral finding?
- A Lingual tooth erosion
- B White hairy tongue
- C Diffuse macrodontia
- D Bulbous tooth roots
Correct answer: Lingual tooth erosion
GERD causes exposure of teeth to gastric acid, particularly on lingual surfaces of maxillary teeth. This leads to enamel erosion.
Which gastrointestinal condition is associated with recurrent oral ulcers along with intestinal inflammation?
- A Peptic ulcer disease
- B Crohn’s disease
- C Gallstones
- D Pancreatic insufficiency
Correct answer: Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease can manifest with oral ulcers, swelling, and mucosal tags. It is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Which organ produces digestive enzymes that break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates?
- A Pancreas
- B Gallbladder
- C Liver
- D Stomach
Correct answer: Pancreas
The pancreas produces enzymes such as lipase, proteases, and amylase. These enzymes are essential for nutrient digestion in the small intestine.
Periodontal pathogens entering the bloodstream may contribute to which systemic condition?
- A Hypertension
- B Atherosclerosis
- C Appendicitis
- D Asthma
Correct answer: Atherosclerosis
Oral bacteria can enter circulation and contribute to arterial inflammation. This has been linked to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Which condition results in decreased saliva flow due to dehydration or poor fluid intake?
- A Hypersalivation
- B Xerostomia
- C Sialorrhea
- D Halitosis
Correct answer: Xerostomia
Xerostomia is dry mouth caused by reduced saliva production. Dehydration is a frequent and reversible cause.