Palatopharyngeal arch

Definition

The palatopharyngeal arch is a muscular structure that forms part of the boundary between the oral cavity and the pharynx, playing a key role in swallowing and speech. It is located at the back of the mouth, extending from the soft palate to the side of the pharynx.

Related terms

Pharynx:

The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the nasal and oral cavities to the esophagus and larynx, facilitating both respiration and digestion.

Soft Palate:

The soft palate is a mobile, muscular flap at the back of the roof of the mouth that closes off the nasal passages during swallowing to prevent food from entering them.

Swallowing: Swallowing is a complex process involving over 20 muscles, coordinated by nerves, to move food from the mouth through the pharynx and into the esophagus