Your mouth is a marvel made of many parts that work together to make eating, speaking, and breathing possible. Dentists spend years studying the anatomy of mouths and faces to offer valuable insights into oral health and hygiene. Even if you’re not a dentist, it can still be beneficial to know about how your mouth functions. If you want a better understanding of oral anatomy for your own education and health, continue reading.
1. Lips
The lips form the gateway to your mouth, allowing you to seal it off tightly to stop food from escaping. They can also open and twist, helping you communicate through facial expressions and articulating the sounds of speech.
2. Teeth
Your teeth are coated with enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, and are designed to chew and break down food into smaller, digestible pieces. They come in three basic shapes, each with its own job to do!
- Incisors are like wedges that chop and cut.
- Molars are flatter teeth that are made for grinding.
- Canines are sharp and pointed, used for gripping and tearing.
3. Gums
The gums are soft tissues that surround and support the teeth, anchoring them in place. This is why healthy gums are essential for excellent oral function! They act as a protective barrier against bacteria and food particles. Proper gum care, including regular brushing and flossing, can help prevent gum disease and support healthy teeth.
4. Jawbones (Mandible and Maxilla)
Two bones, the mandible (lower jaw) and the maxilla (upper jaw), make up your jaw. It provides structure for the teeth, gums, and all surrounding tissues. Your temporomandibular joint connects the upper and lower jawbones and helps you chew and speak. Your jawbones also have a big part in how your face is shaped.
5. Tongue
The tongue is a flexible muscular organ responsible for tasting, swallowing, and speaking. It has thousands of tiny taste buds all over it that detect different flavors and textures of food. It’s also one of the most important speech aids, allowing the manipulation of air within your mouth.
6. Salivary Glands
Have you ever wondered where the slippery saliva stuff comes from? Salivary glands produce it! This watery fluid helps to moisten food, start the digestion process, and protect teeth and gums from bacteria. Additionally, saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth, protecting against tooth decay and gum disease!
Now you know a little bit more about the intricate anatomy of your mouth! With this knowledge, you can take better care of your oral health by understanding the importance of each piece. Take good care of your mouth by practicing good oral hygiene and it’ll take care of you for life!
About the Practice
At Roselle Park Dental, their team of highly skilled dental professionals loves sharing their passion for oral education. Their goal is to help every patient keep their smiles clean and bright, even after they leave the office! Call (908) 245-1745 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to explore other services.