Anatomy of Your Mouth and Throat

There are two main parts of your mouth and throat: the oral cavity and the oropharynx.¹

The Oral Cavity

The oral cavity, or the mouth, includes many parts, including:¹

• The lips

• The lining inside your cheeks

• The tongue

• The salivary glands, which make saliva

• The gums and teeth

• The floor of your mouth, which is under your tongue

• The roof, or bony ceiling, of your mouth

The Throat

Your throat also is known as the oropharynx. It includes your tonsils and the soft areas at the back of your mouth.

Look for Changes

Oral cancer can affect any part of the oral cavity or throat. Keep an eye out for small sores or tiny red or white spots inside or around your mouth and throat. Other signs of oral cancer include lumps, pain, tenderness, and trouble chewing or speaking.² If you see anything suspicious, see your dentist for an oral cancer screening.

¹  “What You Need to Know About Oral Cancer.” National Cancer Institute. September 2004. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/wyntk/oral Accessed 2010.

²  “Oral Cancer.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/2607.aspx Accessed 2010.