Salivary

Salivary glands are exocrine glands that produce saliva, a substance that aids in digestion and maintains oral health. There are three major pairs of salivary glands: the parotid glands, the submandibular glands, and the sublingual glands.

Anatomy

The parotid glands are the largest of the salivary glands and are located in front of the ears. They produce a serous type of saliva that is rich in amylase, an enzyme that breaks down starches.

The submandibular glands are located beneath the jaw and produce a mixture of serous and mucous saliva. This type of saliva helps to lubricate and bind food particles together.

The sublingual glands are the smallest of the major salivary glands and are located beneath the tongue. They produce a mucous type of saliva that acts as a buffer and lubricant.

Function

Salivary glands produce and secrete saliva, which has several important functions:

• Lubrication: The mucus in saliva helps to moisten food and make it easier to swallow.
• Digestion: Saliva contains enzymes that break down food particles, aiding in digestion.
• Oral health: Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth and prevent tooth decay by neutralizing acids and washing away food particles.
• Taste: Saliva dissolves food particles, which allows the taste receptors on the tongue to detect flavor.

Diseases and disorders

There are several diseases and disorders that can affect the salivary glands:

• Sialolithiasis: This is a condition in which a calcified stone forms within a salivary gland.
• Sialadenitis: This is an infection of a salivary gland, usually caused by a bacterial infection.
• Sjögren's syndrome: This is an autoimmune disorder that often results in the destruction of the salivary glands.
• Salivary gland tumors: These are rare and can be benign or malignant.

See also

• Saliva
• Exocrine gland
• Digestion

Salivary Resources
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