PAPILLA INCISIVA Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "papilla incisiva" refers to a small, raised structure located on the hard palate of the oral cavity. It is also commonly known as the incisive papilla. The papilla incisiva is positioned at the midline of the hard palate, just behind the maxillary central incisors.
Measuring approximately 2-3 millimeters in diameter, the papilla incisiva has a slightly conical shape and is characterized by its firm texture. It is composed of specialized mucous membrane tissue and contains numerous nerve endings.
The primary function of the papilla incisiva is to provide sensory perception, particularly in relation to temperature and texture of food particles or other objects that come into contact with it. When the tongue moves, it may touch the papilla incisiva, contributing to the overall sensory experience during mastication and oral exploration.
In addition to its sensory role, the papilla incisiva also plays a minor structural role in the oral cavity. It serves as a landmark for certain dental procedures, serving as a reference point for determining the position of dentures or for marking specific locations during oral surgeries.
Overall, the papilla incisiva functions as an important component of the oral sensory system, contributing to the perception and processing of stimuli related to food ingestion and oral exploration.
-
P. palatina, a slight elevation at the anterior extremity of the raphe of the palate.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PAPILLA INCISIVA
Etymology of PAPILLA INCISIVA
The word "papilla incisiva" has its etymology rooted in Latin. "Papilla" comes from the Latin word "papula" which means "small pimple" or "nipple". "Incisiva" is derived from the Latin word "incisus", which means "cut" or "incised". Therefore, "papilla incisiva" refers to a small, nipple-like projection located in the incisive canal of the hard palate.
