Teeth: The teeth are hard, white structures that are embedded in the jaw bones. They are used to chew food and to articulate speech. Adults have 32 teeth, while children have 20.
Tongue: The tongue is a muscular organ that is located on the floor of the mouth. It is covered with papillae, which are small, fleshy projections that contain taste buds. The tongue is used to taste food, to speak, and to swallow.
Gums: The gums are the soft tissues that surround the teeth. They are lined with mucous membranes and are richly supplied with blood vessels. The gums help to protect the teeth and to keep them in place.
Palate: The palate is the roof of the mouth. It is made up of bone and muscle, and it is covered with mucous membranes. The palate helps to separate the nasal cavity from the oral cavity.
Uvula: The uvula is a small, fleshy projection that hangs down from the back of the palate. It helps to seal off the back of the throat during swallowing.
Tonsils: The tonsils are two small, oval-shaped masses of lymphoid tissue that are located on either side of the back of the throat. They help to trap bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth or nose.
Salivary glands: The salivary glands are three pairs of glands that produce saliva. Saliva helps to keep the mouth moist, to break down food, and to protect the teeth from decay.