Digestive System Digestion occurs within the digestive tract which begins at the mouth and ends with the anus. 20 deciduous teeth are replaced by 32 adult teeth. Periodontal membrane , between root and gum, lines tooth socket. Consists of the anterior hard palate with several hard bones. Also consists of the posterior soft palate mostly of muscle.
Soft palate ends in the uvula .
Glands release saliva through ducts into mouth. An enzyme in saliva begins starch digestion. Chewed food is mixed with saliva to form a bolus for swallowing. The region between mouth and esophagus. Swallowing is a reflex action.