Your mouth doesn’t get enough credit. You use it to eat, smile, sip your morning coffee, and converse with the ones you love. But how much do you really know about what’s inside it? Every part has a job, and they all work together. Keep reading for a quick tour of your mouth to see how preventive dentistry protects every part of it.
Teeth
Your teeth are separated into categories, each with its own job to do. Incisors slice food, canines tear it, and premolars and molars grind it. Each tooth is covered in enamel, the hardest substance in your body. Beneath it sits dentin, and at the center is the pulp, which holds nerves and blood vessels. Regular checkups look for cavities and infections to keep teeth strong.
Gums
Your gums are made up of soft tissues that surround your teeth. They help hold your teeth in place and protect the roots against bacteria. Healthy gums look firm and pink, but if they turn red, become swollen, or start to bleed, it can be a sign of gum disease.
Tongue
Your tongue is a strong muscle covered in taste buds. It moves food as you chew, helps you swallow, and shapes your words. It also absorbs bacteria, which can cause bad breath to linger. If you see changes in its color or texture, it’s best to call your dentist and schedule a checkup.
Salivary Glands
These small glands, located all throughout your mouth, produce saliva, which does a lot more than you’d think. It begins the digestive process by breaking down food, rinses away debris, and neutralizes acids that attack enamel. Having too little saliva can actually make your teeth more vulnerable to cavities.
Jaw and Joints
Your jawbone’s main jobs are to anchor your teeth and help you chew. On each side, a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) works like a hinge, letting you open, close, and slide your jaw. Pain or clicking here may signal a TMJ disorder.
Palate, Lips, and Cheeks
The palate is the roof of your mouth. It separates your oral cavity from your nasal passages and helps control air and sound, so you can speak clearly. Your lips and cheeks also play a role in this process, along with keeping food between your teeth as you chew. Dentists check all these soft tissues during oral cancer screenings.
Every part of your mouth depends on the others, and your oral health depends on keeping them all clean and healthy. So, brush, floss, and see your dentist every six months. A good checkup covers everything from your teeth to your tongue and will help you enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile.
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, Dr. Ryan Johnson and Dr. Rose Johnson offer preventive care that looks after every part of your mouth, including thorough oral cancer screenings at every visit. From checkups and cleanings to fluoride treatments and sealants, our team helps keep your teeth, gums, and everything in between healthy for life. Call (904) 895-4536 to schedule your visit today.