Dentoword : Today's Word is 'Oral Mucosa'

 

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Learn your dental terms with detailed explanation

 
Today's word is "Oral Mucosa"

Oral Mucosa : 'The Protective Wall Of The Oral Cavity'

Every tissue in the oral cavity is important to us, whether it is hard tissue or soft tissue. Today, we will discuss the oral mucosa, which covers our oral cavity and protects the underlying structures from any damage.

Definition :

The moist lining of the oral cavity that communicates with the exterior is referred to as the oral mucous membrane or oral mucosa.

Classification of Oral Mucosa :

A. Based on function :

1. Masticatory mucosa :
Found on gingiva and palate, more resilient and keratinized.

2. Lining mucosa : 
Covers the cheeks, lips & floor of the mouth . Softer and more flexible .

3. Specialized mucosa :
Located on the tongue and taste buds,aiding in taste sensation.

B. Based on type of epithelium :

• Keratinized 
• Non - keratinized 

Function of Oral Mucosa :

A.Protection :

The oral mucosa shields the deeper tissues from the mechanical forces of chewing and the abrasive nature of food items.

B.Sensation :

• The oral mucosa is sensitive to touch, pressure, pain, and temperature.
• The sensation of taste is unique and is felt only on the anterior two-thirds of the dorsum of the tongue.

C.Secretion :

• Salivary and sebaceous glands are present in the oral mucosa. 
• Mainly saliva secretion maintains the moist surface of the mucosa.

D.Defense :

• The oral mucosa acts as an effective barrier against the entry of microorganisms. 
• It is impermeable to bacterial toxins and secretes antibodies. 
• Additionally, it has efficient humoral and cell-mediated immunity.

E.Absorption :

Absorbs nutrients and medications administered orally.

Personal Insight :

During my college postings in the Oral Medicine and Radiology department, I observed many cases of patients with problems related to their oral mucosa. For example:

• Patients with brush trauma to the buccal mucosa or gingiva.
• Several ulcers in the oral cavity due to vitamin deficiency.
• Injuries to the oral mucosa caused by cheek bites or sharp cusp tips of teeth.
• Conditions like leukoplakia, lichen planus, and tobacco pouch lesions on the oral mucosa.

All of these conditions can be effectively treated or managed if addressed early with proper treatment and counseling.

Care and Maintenance of Oral Mucosa :

1.Oral Hygiene Practices:

• Brush twice a day.
• Floss daily.

2.Regular Dental Check-Ups:

Early detection of conditions and treatment to avoid further complications.

3.Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle:

• Include a balanced diet in your daily routine.
• Avoid smoking, as it affects oral health.

Conclusion :

The oral mucosa, a soft tissue lining, plays a vital role in protecting and supporting structures within the oral cavity. By understanding its structure and function and taking proper steps to care for it, we can maintain good oral health throughout our lives.

Request to reader :

Thank you for reading! If you have any doubts or queries, please let me know. And don't forget to care for your oral health because it is precious.

References :

1. Orban's Oral Histology & embryology , 15th edition , G S Kumar,Elsevier.

2. Ten Cate's Oral Histology, 9th edition,Antonio Nanci, Elsevier.