Submandibular gland

The Submandibular gland is a type of salivary gland that is located beneath the lower jaws. It is one of the three major salivary glands, the other two being the parotid gland and the sublingual gland. The submandibular gland produces and secretes saliva, a fluid that aids in digestion and maintains oral health.

Anatomy

The submandibular gland is a mixed gland with both serous and mucous acini. It is located in the submandibular triangle, a region of the neck bounded by the anterior and posterior bellies of the digastric muscle and the lower border of the mandible. The gland is encapsulated by a fibrous tissue capsule, and it is divided into superficial and deep lobes by the mylohyoid muscle.

Function

The primary function of the submandibular gland is the production and secretion of saliva. Saliva produced by the submandibular gland contains a mixture of water, electrolytes, mucus, and enzymes. This fluid aids in the digestion of food, lubricates the oral cavity, and helps to protect the mouth from infection.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the submandibular gland can include sialolithiasis, sialadenitis, and neoplasms. Sialolithiasis is the formation of stones within the gland, while sialadenitis is inflammation of the gland. Neoplasms, or tumors, can also occur in the submandibular gland, and these can be either benign or malignant.

See also

• Salivary gland
• Parotid gland
• Sublingual gland
• Sialolithiasis
• Sialadenitis

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