Oral

Oral: What is it and how does it relate to the mouth?

The term "oral" comes from the Latin word "oralis", which means "oral". Thus, oral refers to anything related to or originating from the mouth.

In medicine, the term "oral" is often used to refer to dosage forms that are taken by mouth. These can be tablets, capsules, solutions, syrups and other forms of medicines that pass through the digestive system and enter the blood.

Oral dosage forms are usually taken orally, that is, by mouth. They allow the drug to act quickly and effectively, since it enters directly into the blood through the intestines.

However, in addition to dosage forms, the term "oral" can also refer to various procedures and practices related to the oral cavity. For example, oral sex is a form of sexual activity in which stimulation occurs through the mouth and tongue.

Also in dentistry, the term "oral" is used to refer to procedures related to the teeth and gums. For example, oral hygiene includes procedures for cleaning teeth and gums, and oral surgery may include tooth extraction or denture implantation.

In general, the term "oral" has wide application in medicine, science and everyday life. It is associated with the oral cavity and can refer to medications, procedures, and practices related to the mouth and teeth.