Definition: Body cavity that communicate with the external surface are lined by mucous membranes, which are coated by serous and mucous secretions.
Extension of oral mucosa/oral mucous membrane:
Anteriorly: Lip through vermilion border
Posteriorly: Pharynx
Classification of oral mucosa:
A) On the basis of functional adaptation:
a. Masticatory mucosa:
Location: Gingiva, hard palate and dorsum of tongue
- Bound to bone and doesn't stretch
- Bears forces generated when food is chewed
b. Lining or reflecting mucosa
Location: Lip, cheek, vestibular fornix, alveolar mucosa, floor of mouth and soft palate
- Covers musculature part and is distensible
- Adapts itself to contraction and relaxation of cheeks, lips and tongue and to movement of mandible
c. Specialized mucosa:
Location: Dorsum of tongue and taste buds
- Also called sensory mucosa
- Bears taste buds having sensory function
B) On the basis of type of epithelium:
a. Keratinized mucosa
b. Non-keratinized mucosa
