Figure 3-3. The permanent teeth.
3-6.
THE PHARYNX
The pharynx lies behind the nasal cavities, mouth, and larynx and extends into
the esophagus. The cavity of the pharynx may be subdivided, from above downward,
into three parts: nasal, oral, and laryngeal.
a. The nasopharynx (nasal) extends upward from the soft palate and is an air
passage.
b. The oropharynx (oral) reaches from the level of the soft palate (level of the
body of the axis) to that of the hyoid bone. It is a common passage for air and food.
c. The laryngopharynx (laryngeal) extends from the level of the hyoid bone to
that of the lower border of the cricoid cartilage opposite the sixth cervical vertebra. It
lies posterior to the larynx and opens into the esophagus.
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