What is fauces of the mouth?

The fauces are the opening at the back of the mouth where the oral cavity meets the pharynx. It is formed by the soft palate, the lateral walls of the oropharynx, and the palatine tonsils on either side. The fauces play an important role in swallowing and preventing food and fluids from entering the nasal cavity. They also contribute to the production of speech sounds and breathing. The tonsils located in the fauces are part of the immune system and help to protect the body from infections that enter through the mouth and nose.