Incisive papilla

The incisive papilla is an odd relief located just behind the central incisors. Framed by two smaller transverse elevations, often not very distinct, it has, near each of its lateral edges, a slit-shaped orifice which gives access to the incisive duct, the other end of which opens into the nasal cavity.

In humans and equines these orifices are not present, the duct becomes obliterated during development but its location remains marked by a dimple.

In ruminants, where the upper incisors are lacking, the incisive papilla is as if embedded at the end of a strong median furrow which notches the rostral edge of a large dental cushion, which replaces these teeth and results from a strong semi-thickening lunar gum.