<P> The lamina propria, like all forms of connective tissue proper, has two layers: papillary and dense . The papillary layer is the more superficial layer of the lamina propria . It consists of loose connective tissue within the connective tissue papillae, along with blood vessels and nerve tissue . The tissue has an equal amount of fibers, cells, and intercellular substance . The dense layer is the deeper layer of the lamina propria . It consists of dense connective tissue with a large amount of fibers . Between the papillary layer and the deeper layers of the lamina propria is a capillary plexus, which provides nutrition for the all layers of the mucosa and sends capillaries into the connective tissue papillae . </P> <P> A submucosa may or may not be present deep in the dense layer of the lamina propria, depending on the region of the oral cavity . If present, the submucosa usually contains loose connective tissue and may also contain adipose tissue or salivary glands, as well as overlying bone or muscle within the oral cavity . </P> <P> A variable number of Fordyce spots or granules are scattered throughout the nonkeratinized tissue . These are a normal variant, visible as small, yellowish bumps on the surface of the mucosa . They correspond to deposits of sebum from misplaced sebaceous glands in the submucosa that are usually associated with hair follicles . </P> <P> A basal lamina (basement membrane without aid of the microscope) is at the interface between the oral epithelium and lamina propria similar to the epidermis and dermis . </P>

Where is the mucous membrane located in the mouth