Digestion Begins Here The Role of the Mouth in Food Breakdown

The video tutorial explains the initial stages of digestion in the mouth, focusing on the conversion of food into a bolus through mastication. It details the anatomy and function of the tongue, including its extrinsic and intrinsic muscles. The process of hydrolysis is introduced, highlighting the role of various salivary glands and the enzymes they release. Specific glands like the parotid, submandibular, sublingual, and von Ebner's are discussed, along with their contributions to saliva composition and enzyme secretion. The importance of maintaining a neutral pH in the mouth to prevent tooth decay is also emphasized.

What is the primary function of the mouth in digestion?

• To break down proteins

• To convert food into a bolus

• To absorb nutrients

• To neutralize stomach acid

What is the scientific term for chewing?

• Peristalsis

• Mastication

• Ingestion

• Deglutition

What is the role of extrinsic muscles in the tongue?

• To change the size of the tongue

• To produce saliva

• To anchor the tongue to the mouth

• To elevate and depress the tongue

Which type of muscle is responsible for changing the size of the tongue?

• Extrinsic muscles

• Smooth muscles

• Intrinsic muscles

• Skeletal muscles

What process involves enzymes breaking down macromolecules in the mouth?

• Reduction

• Oxidation

• Hydrolysis

• Fermentation

Which gland is the largest and contributes 25% of saliva production?

• Sublingual gland

• Von Ebner's gland

• Parotid gland

• Submandibular gland

What is the primary content released by the sublingual gland?

• Serous content

• Mucin

• Enzymes

• Salts

Which enzyme is responsible for breaking down triglycerides in the mouth?

• Trypsin

• Pepsin

• Lingual lipase

• Alpha amylase

What is the main purpose of enzyme activity in the mouth?

• To produce energy

• To enhance taste

• To absorb nutrients

• To neutralize acids

What happens if the pH in the mouth drops below 5.5?

• Saliva production increases

• Teeth begin to demineralize

• Teeth become stronger

• Enzyme activity stops