Answer:
The oral cavity functions in processes such as ingestion, digestion, taste sensation, and speech. Possible associated diseases include tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, thrush, and halitosis.
Explanation:
The oral cavity functions include:
- Ingestion: the intake of food and liquids.
- Mechanical digestion: the physical breakdown of food through chewing.
- Chemical digestion: the breakdown of food by enzymes in saliva.
- Taste sensation: taste buds on the tongue help in detecting flavors.
- Speech: the oral cavity plays a crucial role in forming sounds for speech.
Possible diseases associated with the oral cavity include:
- Tooth decay (caries): caused by bacteria breaking down sugars to produce acids that erode tooth enamel.
- Gum disease (periodontal disease): inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues.
- Oral cancer: abnormal cell growth in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Thrush (oral candidiasis): a fungal infection in the mouth.
- Halitosis (bad breath): caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or other health issues.
