Oral Cavity, Pharynx, and Salivary Glands

Figure 3 (below). Models showing a midsagittal section through the head (upper and lower left images), and the right side of the head (lower right image). The ORAL CAVITY is the beginning of the alimentary canal.Its boundaries are: anteriorly the LABIA (a), laterally the CHEEKS (l), superiorly the PALATE (b & c), and inferiorly the TONGUE (d).There is no posterior boundary, for the oral cavity opens into the OROPHARYNX (f). The anterior portion of the palate contains bone and is thus called the HARD PALATE (b).The SOFT PALATE (c) lacks bone.Its most posterior extension is the UVULA (asterisk).

The PHARYNX connects the oral cavity to the esophagus. Its three subdivisions are the NASOPHARYNX (e), OROPHARYNX (f) and LARYNGOPHARYNX (g).

Accessory digestive organs located in the oral cavity include the TEETH (h) and salivary glands. The three major salivary glands are named for their locations. The PAROTID (meaning “near the ear”) SALIVARY GLAND is anterior and inferior to the ear (k). The SUBLINGUAL SALIVARY GLAND (i) is inferior to the tongue, and the SUBMANDIBULAR SALIVARY GLAND (j) is inferior to the mandible.