Physical Exam: Mouth and Pharynx

I. Inspection: Normal findings

• Temporomandibular joint: smooth jaw excursion; easy mobility
• Lips and buccal mucosa: symmetrical, pink; smooth and moist
• Teeth and gums: 32 adult teeth; pink gums
• Tongue: symmetry, pink, moist; papilla present
• Hard and soft palate: hard palate is pale, immovable with transverse rugae; soft palate is pink and movable
• Oropharynx: symmetrical; midline uvula, tonsils may be present on either side

II. Geriatric Alterations

• Mucosa may be drier
• Sense of taste may be diminished
• Decreased saliva
• Lips thinner, shiny
• Teeth may appear yellowish
• Tongue may appear smoother