Article
Oral pit is a term used to describe a special structure in the human body. This pit is located in the mouth and is important for human health, and can also be a source of various diseases.
History of the oral fossa
The oral fossa was first described by the Italian anatomist Alfonso Fontana in 1633. He named it "stomodeum" - from the Greek word "στομα" (mouth), which refers to its location in the mouth. But most modern authors still use the outdated term "stomideum".
Recent research has shown that the oral pit may be closely related to biological processes in the body, such as digestion, protection against infection, and control of body temperature. In addition, this fossa plays an important role in the processes of breathing and speech.
In children, the oral pit forms around the seventh month of pregnancy, when the palate develops. It is a round depression in the roof of the mouth, surrounded by a thin membrane (mantle). At first it is filled with mucous membrane, but over time the mantle becomes harder and the mucous membrane disappears. By 2-3 years of age, the palate is fully formed and the oral fossa becomes a permanent structure of the oral cavity. However, in some people the oral fossa is absent or not well developed.
Despite the fact that the oral fossa can be called the little finger of the palate, it has a rather complex structure and performs many functions. For example, the oral pit is the main site for the production of saliva and contains a special type of salivary glands - the minor salivary glands (minor salivary glands).
Functions of the oral fossa The functions of the oral fossa include: Firstly, it is a reservoir of salivary fluid. Secondly, it is involved in the regulation of taste sensations. Thirdly, it stores the secretion of certain glands. **Major Problems** However, pitting in humans generally does not cause any significant health problems -