Oral Mucosa Overview

The oral mucosa primarily functions to protect underlying tissues from the oral environment.

The lining mucosa covers areas such as the floor of the mouth, inner lips, and cheeks.

Healthy lining mucosa has a moist surface due to the presence of saliva and minor salivary glands.

Oral mucosa is divided into lining, masticatory, and specialized mucosa; lateral mucosa is not a recognized type.

Lining mucosa is primarily associated with stratified squamous nonkeratinized epithelium.

The oral mucosa acts as a barrier, preventing pathogens from invading deeper tissues.

Healthy lining mucosa is typically moist and flexible, not firm and dry.

Masticatory mucosa is found in areas like the gingiva and hard palate that withstand chewing forces.

Masticatory mucosa is primarily associated with keratinized epithelium, providing a tough protective surface.

Masticatory mucosa covers the attached gingivae, providing a firm base around the teeth.

Masticatory mucosa is rubbery and resilient, allowing it to withstand mechanical stress.

Masticatory mucosa is dense, making it difficult for infections to spread rapidly.

Specialized mucosa is associated with the presence of lingual papillae on the tongue, which contain taste buds.

Nonkeratinized epithelium may transform into a keratinizing type as a protective response to chronic trauma.

Sutures are typically required after surgical procedures in masticatory mucosa due to its firm and dense nature.

Hyperkeratinisation refers to an abnormal increase in the production of keratin, often in response to irritation.