- Salivary glands are exocrine glands in the human body that produce and secrete saliva, a vital fluid that aids in digestion and oral health.
Anatomy
- It is exocrine glands that produce and secrete saliva.
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There are three pairs of major glands and numerous minor glands in the oral cavity.
Parotid glands:
- The largest glands, located near the ears, in front of and below the external auditory canal.
Submandibular glands:
- Located under the lower jaw, these are medium-sized, bean-shaped glands.
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Sublingual glands:
Functions:
The primary function of the salivary glands is to produce and secrete saliva, which has several roles:
- Moistening and lubricating food, making it easier to chew and swallow.
- Initiating the digestion of carbohydrates through the enzyme amylase, which breaks down starches into smaller sugars.
- Protecting oral tissues and teeth by neutralizing acids and maintaining oral hygiene through antimicrobial components.
- Facilitating taste by dissolving food particles, allowing them to come into contact with taste receptors on the tongue.
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