Palate

Palate This is the name given to the roof of the mouth. Anteriorly, extending between the alveolar processes of the upper jaw, the palate has a bony framework, upon which the mucous membrane of the upper part of the mouth is moulded. This is the hard palate. Behind it lies the soft palate, which has no bony support, but arches over, forming on each side what are known as the pillars of the fauces, and in the middle line a projection which is called the uvula. The pillars of the fauces are two in number on either side - anterior and, posterior - and between the anterior and posterior pillar of each side lies the tonsil. Cleft palate is met with in young children as the result of non-union of parts by mal-development. It is often associated with hare-lip, and requires to be treated by surgical operation.