Human Tongue

Structure and Parts

The tongue consists of three main sections: tip (apex), body, and base (root).

It is divided into anterior (oral) and posterior (pharyngeal) parts by the terminal sulcus, a V-shaped groove.

The dorsal (top) surface is rough with papillae containing taste buds, while the ventral (bottom) surface is smooth and anchored to the mouth floor by the lingual frenulum.

Tissue and Musculature

The surface is covered with moist, pink mucosa and dotted with papillae for taste and touch.

The tongue is made of extrinsic muscles (which move the tongue in and out or side to side) and intrinsic muscles (which change the tongue's shape and size).

It is attached at the base to the hyoid bone and the floor of the mouth.

Functions

The tongue helps grip and move food, blending it for swallowing.

It supports various types of speech sounds through precise movement and reshaping.

The organ is the main site for taste, with taste buds sensing sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami flavors.

It also protects the airway during swallowing by helping shield the epiglottis.

Nerves and Blood Supply

Taste sensation is carried by the glossopharyngeal and chorda tympani branch of the facial nerve; pain, touch, and temperature are conveyed by the trigeminal nerve.

The hypoglossal nerve controls movement