Mastication
Mastication
Mastication (pronunciation: /ˌmæstɪˈkeɪʃən/), also known as chewing, is the process by which food is crushed and ground by teeth. It is the first step of digestion, and it increases the surface area of foods to allow a more efficient break down by enzymes.
Etymology
The term "mastication" is derived from the Greek verb μαστιχείν (mastichein), which means "to chew".
Process
During mastication, the food is positioned by the cheek and tongue between the teeth for grinding. The muscles of mastication move the jaws to bring the teeth into intermittent contact, repeatedly occluding and opening. As chewing continues, the food is made softer and warmer, and the enzymes in saliva begin to break down carbohydrates in the food. After chewing, the food (now called a bolus) is swallowed. It enters the esophagus and via peristalsis continues on to the stomach, where the next step of digestion occurs.
Muscles involved
The muscles of mastication are paired on each side and work together to move the jaw and mandible. They are:
Related terms
- Bolus: The ball of food that is formed in the mouth during the process of chewing which is then swallowed.
- Peristalsis: The rhythmic contraction of smooth muscles to propel contents through the digestive tract.
- Digestion: The process of breaking down food by mechanical and enzymatic action in the alimentary canal into substances that can be used by the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mastication
- Wikipedia's article - Mastication
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