1. Nervous System

2. Function of the nervous system Transmits stimuli to the brain (sound, sight, taste, smell, feel) Processes information (thinks) Responds to stimuli Body’s communication system Controls/regulates other body systems Maintains homeostasis.

3. Structures of the nervous system Brain Mass of neurons “grey matter” Spinal cord Connects CNS to PNS Neuron Aka nerve cell

4. Nervous systems CNS Central nervous system Brain Spinal cord Controls body systems Regulates Heart rate Breathing etc.

5. Nervous systems PNS Peripheral nervous system All of the nerves outside of the CNS. Controlling voluntary systems. ie: Nerves of the extremities. Arms Legs Etc.

6. Nervous systems ANS Autonomic nervous system Special peripheral nerves that work automatically. Control involuntary processes. ie: Heart beat Digestion Blinking Saliva production

7. Neuron Nerve cell 2 types Afferent aka sensory Sends stimuli towards the brain spinal cord Efferent aka motor Sends stimuli away from brain to muscle Soma Body of the cell Contains the nucleus Dendrites Receive the signal / impulse Sends signal / impulse towards the cell body Axon Sends signal /impulse away from cell body Towards the synapse Attaches to muscle

8. synapse The gap / space Between neurons. Impulses jump from the axon Across the synapse To the dendrite of the next neuron

9. Neuron

10. Myelin Sheath Protects nerves of the PNS. Beads of myelin Made of Schwann cells Creates ‘white’ appearance “white matter”

11. Reflex Arc Stimuli / impulse is sent to spinal cord / brain Signal / impulse is sent to muscle.

12. Conclusion Understanding nerves and how they work are very important. They relate to pain and numbness in the dental field. You are looked at as the expert, you should know a little more than your patients. Any questions?