6 Questions
What is the primary function of the tongue in relation to food?
To break down food into smaller pieces and shape it into a bolus
What is the role of the tongue in the sensory function of taste?
To contain taste buds that allow us to perceive different flavors
What is the role of the tongue in the articulatory function of speech?
To help form words and sounds by changing its position and shape
What is the role of the tongue in the mechanical function of swallowing?
To propel food into the pharynx and initiate the swallowing reflex
What is the role of the tongue in maintaining oral hygiene?
To remove food particles and debris from the mouth
What is the relationship between the tongue's functions?
The tongue often performs multiple functions simultaneously
Study Notes
Tongue Function
Mechanical Functions
- Food manipulation: The tongue helps to mix food with saliva, break down food into smaller pieces, and shape it into a bolus for swallowing.
- Swallowing: The tongue helps to propel food into the pharynx and initiate the swallowing reflex.
Sensory Functions
- Taste: The tongue contains taste buds that allow us to perceive different flavors (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, umami).
- Touch: The tongue is sensitive to touch and pressure, helping us to perceive the texture and temperature of food.
Articulatory Functions
- Speech: The tongue plays a crucial role in speech, helping to form words and sounds by changing its position and shape.
- Phonation: The tongue helps to modulate the airflow and vocal cord vibrations to produce different sounds.
Other Functions
- Saliva distribution: The tongue helps to distribute saliva throughout the mouth, aiding in digestion and oral health.
- Mouth cleaning: The tongue helps to remove food particles and debris from the mouth, promoting oral hygiene.
Note: These functions are not mutually exclusive, and the tongue often performs multiple functions simultaneously.
Learn about the different functions of the tongue, including mechanical, sensory, articulatory, and other functions involved in eating, speaking, and maintaining oral health.
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