D) Oral Cavity

The oral cavity consists of numerous structures which all require special consideration.

Oral Cavity

The oral cavity is the space bounded by the lips anteriorly, the oropharynx posteriorly (via the oropharyngeal isthmus/palatoglossal folds), the palate superiorly, and the tongue/floor of mouth inferiorly. It is divided into two parts:

• The oral vestibule is the space deep to the lips and cheeks but superficial to the teeth and alveolar processes
• The oral cavity proper is the space between the teeth, palate, tongue and oropharynx.

Relations

The nasopharynx and nasal cavities lie superiorly, separated by the hard and soft palate.
The mylohyoid muscle forms the floor of the mouth and separates it from the neck.
The mandibles and cheeks lie laterally.
The oropharynx and tonsils lie posteriorly.

Sub-regions of the Oral Cavity

• a) Lips
• b) Cheeks
• c) Floor Of Mouth
• d) Gingivae
• e) Teeth
• f) Hard Palate
• g) Tongue
• h) Mandible

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Links

• 1: Head and Neck
  • A) Orbit
  • B) Paranasal Sinuses
  • C) Pharynx
  • D) Oral Cavity
  • E) Larynx
  • F) Endocrine Glands of the Neck
  • G) Salivary Glands
  • H) Cranial Nerves
  • I) Base of Skull
  • J) Autonomic Innervation Of Head and Neck
  • K) Lymph Nodes Of The Head and Neck
  • L) Vascular Supply Of The Head and Neck
  • M) Anatomical Compartments