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Structure of the Tongue and Teeth

Introduction to the Oral Cavity

  • The tongue and teeth are critical structures located within the oral cavity.

Dissection Observations

  • Dorsal Surface of the Tongue: Obtained by separating the upper and lower jaws.
  • Soft Palate: Part of the soft palate is split in the oral pharyngeal region.

Anatomy of the Tongue

  • Root of the Tongue:
    • Firmly attached to the floor of the oral cavity and the hyoid apparatus.
  • Body of the Tongue:
    • Also attached to the floor of the oral cavity.
  • Apex of the Tongue:
    • Free to move, can protrude outside of the oral cavity or retract back inside.
Dorsal Surface Characteristics
  • Papillae Type: The dorsal surface is rough due to numerous different types of papillae.
  • Median Sulcus:
    • A prominent line extending from the root to the apex of the tongue, variable in prominence depending on species.
Ventral Surface Characteristics
  • Smooth Surface: The ventral surface is smooth and not covered by papillae.
  • Lingual Frenulum:
    • The tongue is attached to the floor of the oral cavity by a fold of mucous membrane containing muscle fibers.
  • Sublingual Papillae:
    • Finger-like projections located on both sides of the lingual frenulum.

Types of Papillae on the Tongue

  • Fungiform Papillae:
    • Most numerous, giving the tongue a rough texture.
  • Conical Papillae:
    • Slightly larger, located in the oropharyngeal region, pointed backward; associated with mechanical functions.
  • Gustatory Papillae:
    • Responsible for the sense of taste; often found as white spots on the tongue.
  • Vallate Papillae:
    • Circular papillae located near the caudal end of the tongue, limited in number.
  • Foliate Papillae:
    • Located on the caudal and lateral aspect of the tongue, also few in number.

Introduction to Teeth

  • Various types of teeth can be observed in the oral cavity of dogs.
Types of Teeth
  1. Incisor Teeth: Located at the front.
  2. Canine Teeth: One located on each side.
  3. Premolars: Four total, located behind the canine teeth.
  4. Molars:
    • Includes the first and second molars positioned at the back of the mouth.
Clinical Classification of Teeth
  • Teeth are commonly classified as incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
  • In clinical settings, it is often preferred to number teeth rather than name them for identification purposes.

Lower Jaw Structure

  • Lower Jaw Teeth:
    • Consists of:
    • Three incisors
    • One canine
    • Four premolars
    • Three molars

Notable Teeth Structures

  • First Molar in the Lower Jaw & Fourth Premolar in the Upper Jaw:
    • Notable for their spatial alignment, which aids in shearing flesh.
  • Sectorial or Commercial Teeth:
    • Refers to the alignment and function of the smaller one in the lower jaw and the fourth premolar in the upper jaw.