What is pillars of the fauces?

The pillars of the fauces are two structures that are located at the back of the mouth, on either side of the tonsils. They are made up of muscle and connective tissue, and are covered with a mucous membrane. The pillars are named the palatoglossal arch and the palatopharyngeal arch. They serve as supports for the soft palate and play a role in helping to keep food and liquids from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing. The pillars of the fauces are also important in providing structural support and maintaining the shape of the pharynx. In some medical conditions, such as tonsillitis, the pillars may become inflamed or infected.