Functions of the mouth and oesophagus and associated diseases Flashcards
Name functions of the mouth
Mastication Protection (through taste) Addition of saliva Lubrication Formation of bolus
What is the purpose of mastication?
Increases surface area for digestion
What process starts in the mouth?
Initial digestion of fats and carbohydrates by amylase and lipase
What kind of glands are salivary glands?
Exocrine glands
Name the three salivary glands
Parotid gland
Submandibular gland
Sublingual gland
What two cell types are found in salivary glands?
Acinar cells
Ductal cells
What does an acinar cell do?
Produce enzymes
What does a ductal cell do?
Produce mucous
Secrete water
Secrete electrolytes
How much saliva is secreted in 24 hours
1.5L
Which gland produces the most saliva?
Submandibular
Which gland produces watery saliva?
Parotid gland
Which gland produces the most viscous saliva?
The sublingual gland
Name the three roles of saliva
Lubrication
Hydration
Cytoprotection
What three contents of saliva give it immune function?
IgA antibodies
Lactoferrin
Lysozyme
Is saliva alkaline or acidic?
Alkaline
Is saliva hypotonic or hypertonic?
Hypotonic
Name two benefits of saliva being alkaline
It neutralises gastric acid that refluxes into the oesophagus
It protects teeth from bacterial acid
What is Sjogren’s syndrome?
An autoimmune disease
Attacks salivary and tear glands
Results in dry mouth and eyes