Functional Anatomy of a Neuron

A neuron is a cell associated with the nervous system.  Its job is to send and receive messages from other cells.  Neurons are used in motor function, somatic sensation, sensory processing, and thought.  It has three basic parts: the soma, or cell body, the dendrites, and the axon.  The cell body houses the nucleus of the cell as well as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus.  The dendrites are responsible for receiving input from other cells.  The axon transmits the information to another cell.  The gap between the neurons is called a synapse.  Neurons use electrochemical signaling to propagate their message.  Chemicals known as neurotransmitters are responsible for transduction between cells.  Within the neuron, the signal is carried by an electrical wave.  There are many types of neurons in the human body, and each type has a unique purpose.  The brain and spinal cord are made up of neurons (as well as a couple more types of cells, collectively known as glial cells).  If you want to walk, for instance, the message begins in your brain.  It then travels down your spinal cord.  From there, the signal is carried to the muscles of your leg.  The chemicals released by the neurons cause the muscles in your leg to contract or relax as necessary for the desired movement.

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Dental Office: My Experience

I study biology in anticipation of one day attending dental school.  During two of my college summers, I worked full-time in a local dentist's office.  The very first lesson I learned from my work experience was in the form of the potential dangers associated with dentistry.  As a scrub tech, it was my responsibility alone to ensure the instruments used in various procedures were sanitary and available for use.  Of course, this meant I came into contact with dental instruments after their use.  I learned the potential risks of transmittable diseases and how to mitigate those risks.  I found the techniques applied were similar to aseptic techniques used in microbiology laboratories.  Applying knowledge I acquired in my studies to real-world situations I encountered at work was incredibly fulfilling.

As time went on, I began to take on more and more responsibilities and knowledge.  I was developing my hand skills to directly contribute to the dental practice, and I loved every second of it! I was taught how to mix stone, cast and trim models, and mount the models to articulators.  I was able to trim dentures in preparation for soft liners, relieving patients’ pain.  Whenever I was ahead on my responsibilities, the dentist allowed me to observe procedures, explaining what he was doing as he went along.  He invested in me a huge amount of time and effort, and for that I am truly grateful.

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