Anatomy of Tongue and Its Clinical Relevance in Orthodontics

The Human tongue is an important contributor to various orthodontic problems and the detailed knowledge of its anatomical and functional components will assess its key role in orthodontics. It is a Muscular hydrostat characterized by highly complex and Interdigitated musculature, which is situated on the floor of the mouth of all vertebrates. It has no internal bones and a contracting tongue muscle can cause three dimensional changes in tongue shape. Humans have a uniquely robust ability to shape the tongue which plays an important role in in speech, swallowing and respiration. This makes the structural details of tongue muscles and their innervation an important subject. Since the tongue is considered to be intimately related to the shape, size and position of dentition, it is important in orthodontics to know its form and function. Not only anatomical but also functional deformities are important to prevent instability of orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment, and results in masticatory, speech, and airways management functional efficiency.