Ventral Tongue Anterior lingual salivary glands Close to tip of tongue on inferior surface. Five to seven openings under tongue. Lingual frenulum may be broad, resulting in ankyloglossia.
Ventral tongue is often the site of varicosities in older patients.
Lingual tonsils Lymphoid tissue at the floor of the tongue. Variable distribution extending to epiglottis or palatine tonsil. Commonly inflamed following periods of illness. Extend tongue slightly and palpate lateral surface. Avoid gag reflex by coming underneath to palpate.