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February 18, 2026
When you think of caring for your oral health, if you’re like many people you probably instantly imagine your teeth and gums. But the truth is, your mouth is so made up of so much more. In fact, the oral cavity is comprised of five main areas, each of which is vitally important to your oral health. Here’s a closer look at each, and the important role they play in your smile!
Salivary Glands
There are six total salivary glands: two that overlap your jaw near your ear, two under your jaw, and two located below your tongue. Your saliva is a mixture of water, protein, and minerals that assist your body with digestion. It also helps to neutralize and wash away the dangerous acids that are created by cavity-causing oral bacteria, and keeps your mouth hydrated so, you can eat, speak, and swallow.
Tongue
The tongue is made up of a large network of muscles that never stop working, kind of like the heart. In fact, even if you aren’t actively using your tongue to eat or speak, it’s continuously in motion, doing things like pushing saliva down your throat, even when you’re asleep.
The tongue also contains 10,000 tastebuds, which allow you to enjoy the flavors of your favorite sweet, salty, savory, and bitter foods.
Lips & Cheeks
The lips and cheeks prevent your saliva and food from falling out of your mouth when you eat and allow you to make all the wonderfully dramatic facial expressions humans are capable of.
Masseter Muscle
Do you even lift? The truth is that while many people work on building up their arms and legs at the gym, the masseter muscle is the real MVP. The strongest muscle in your body, the masseter runs through the back of your mouth from the front lower part of your skull to your lower jaw and allows you to open and close your mouth. It can even help you clench your jaw with a biteforce of about 200 pounds! Try benching that without ever hitting the gym!
Teeth, Gums & Alveolar Bone
Your teeth are coated in durable enamel, which is the hardest material in the human body, and for good reason. It needs to be strong enough to tear and chew food so your body can digest it and benefit from their nutrients. The teeth are also responsible for giving your face shape and allowing you to properly enunciate your words. They are held in place by the alveolar bone, which in conjunction with your gums, keeps their roots from decay so they can protect you for a lifetime.
The Importance of Protecting Your Oral Health
Now that you know all the important parts of your mouth, you can see why they all must be protected. The good news is that by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, you can avoid many dangerous conditions that could put the various parts of your mouth at risk. In fact, in conjunction with regular dental care, you can ensure that your smile and its five main parts stay healthy and strong for a lifetime!
About Dr. Mueller
Dr. Nick Mueller earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota and his dental degree at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. He is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, Wisconsin Dental Association and the International Association of Orthodontics. To schedule a check-up and cleaning at Shorewood Family Dentistry, visit our website or call us today at 414-332-8150.