National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Which functions does the tongue perform?

1. Speech and taste

2. Cleansing of the oral cavity

3. Swallowing

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The tongue performs several crucial functions that are integral to various oral activities. It is responsible for speech, as its movements shape sounds and help in the articulation of words. Additionally, the tongue plays a significant role in the sense of taste, as taste buds located on it detect different flavors. The tongue also contributes to the cleansing of the oral cavity by helping to remove food particles and debris from teeth and gums, thereby supporting oral hygiene. Furthermore, it is essential in the swallowing process, assisting in maneuvering food into the throat for ingestion. Given these multifaceted roles—speech, taste, cleansing, and swallowing—it's clear that the tongue is involved in all these functions, making the option that includes all of them the correct choice. This comprehensive understanding highlights the tongue's importance in both oral health and daily functions.