National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

Which structure connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth?

1. Frenum

2. Rugae

3. Commissures

4. Papillae

The correct answer is: Frenum

The structure that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is known as the frenum, specifically the lingual frenum. This thin band of tissue extends from the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth, helping to stabilize the tongue's movement. The frenum plays a crucial role in allowing for proper tongue function, which is vital for speaking, swallowing, and oral hygiene. The other terms mentioned refer to different structures in the oral cavity. Rugae are the folds or ridges found in the hard palate, which aid in the process of mastication and increase the surface area for friction against food. Commissures refer to the points where the lips meet at the corners of the mouth, and while they are important for facial expressions and movement, they do not connect the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Papillae are the small, nipple-like projections on the surface of the tongue that contain taste buds, contributing to the sense of taste, but they do not serve the purpose of anchoring the tongue in place.