Embryology of the oral structures

Pediatric oropharyngeal procedures are common. Approximately 500,000 tonsillectomies are performed per year in children in the United States. Pediatric development of the oral cavity involves numerous structures. Knowledge of the embryologic origins of these structures is key in understanding their form and function. We present an overview of the embryology of the oral cavity. Focus is placed on clinical correlation when treating children with malformations of these structures.