A nurse is teaching a class about teeth. Which of the following are functions of teeth? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Teeth facilitate speech by shaping the oral cavity for articulation. Incisors and molars help form sounds like “th” or “s” by directing airflow and tongue positioning. This involves coordination with the vocal cords and oropharyngeal muscles, critical for clear phonation and language expression. Choice B reason: Teeth do not secrete mucus, which is produced by salivary glands and mucosal cells in the oral cavity. Mucus lubricates and protects oral tissues but is unrelated to tooth function. Teeth are hard structures (enamel, dentin) designed for mechanical tasks, not glandular secretion. Choice C reason: Teeth contribute to facial structure by supporting the jaw and soft tissues. They maintain mandibular and maxillary alignment, influencing cheek and lip contours. Tooth loss alters facial aesthetics due to bone resorption, affecting the skeletal framework and overall facial shape, critical for appearance. Choice D reason: Chewing (mastication) is a primary function of teeth, breaking down food via mechanical grinding. Molars and premolars crush food, increasing surface area for enzymatic digestion by salivary amylase. This process, coordinated by jaw muscles, initiates digestion, ensuring nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Choice E reason: Teeth do not directly protect against pathogens. Saliva and immune cells in the oral mucosa provide antimicrobial defense via lysozyme and immunoglobulins. Teeth are inert structures, and while they support oral health indirectly, they lack active immune functions to combat bacterial or viral pathogens.