American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

Mandibular setback procedures often involve moving the lower jaw (mandible) posteriorly, which can influence the position and tension of certain muscles in the neck. According to Santagata's findings, one notable effect is the stretching of the suprahyoid muscles. These muscles are located above the hyoid bone and play a critical role in the movement of the tongue and the hyoid bone itself.

When the mandible is set back, the relationship between the mandible and the hyoid bone changes, which can lead to an elongation of the suprahyoid muscles. This elongation is significant as it may influence the airway dynamics by altering the position of the hyoid bone and potentially affecting tongue posture. The stretch on these muscles can help maintain airway patency; however, it does not necessarily increase the airway diameter. Understanding this relationship helps clinicians appreciate the complex interactions between jaw position and airway function.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the physiological responses associated with a mandibular setback. For example, while airway diameter changes can occur, they are not typically described as significant as suggested. The impact on the tongue muscles and hyoid bone position is more nuanced and involves a complex relationship that does