Explain the epiglottis and surrounding throat structures

The epiglottis is a flap that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing.

Epiglottis:

• Epiglottis – flap-like structure that closes the windpipe during swallowing
• Pharynx – throat passage for food and air
• Esophagus – carries food to the stomach
• Trachea – windpipe that carries air to the lungs
• Larynx – voice box
• Tongue – helps in taste, speech, and swallowing
• Hard palate – front bony roof of the mouth
• Soft palate – back soft part of the mouth roof
• Uvula – small hanging structure at the back of the mouth
• Palatine tonsil – lymph tissue at the side of the throat
• Lingual tonsil – lymph tissue at the back of the tongue
• Pharyngeal tonsil – lymph tissue in the upper throat
• Lips – outer opening of the mouth
• Incisor – front cutting tooth
• Mandible – lower jaw bone
• Hyoid bone – supports tongue and larynx
• Thyroid gland – gland in the neck
• Esophagus – food pipe behind the trachea