Mastication

Definition

Mastication is the process of chewing food in preparation for swallowing and digestion. It involves the mechanical breakdown of food by teeth, increasing its surface area for enzymatic action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mastication is the first step in the digestive process and is crucial for efficient digestion.
2. Saliva, produced during mastication, contains enzymes like amylase that begin the chemical breakdown of carbohydrates.
3. Proper mastication helps prevent choking and aids in nutrient absorption by breaking down food into smaller, more manageable pieces.
4. Inadequate mastication can lead to indigestion and gastrointestinal discomfort.
5. The muscles involved in mastication include the masseter, temporalis, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid.

Review Questions

• What role does saliva play during mastication?
• Which muscles are primarily involved in the process of mastication?
• How does proper mastication impact nutrient absorption?

Related terms

Deglutition: The act of swallowing food or liquid from the mouth into the esophagus.

Enzymatic Action: The chemical processes carried out by enzymes to break down food substances during digestion.

Gastrointestinal Tract:

A series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption.