The salivary glands are the organs that produce saliva.
Salivary Glands and Saliva Production
Saliva is a watery substance essential for digestion and oral health. The responsibility for producing and excreting this vital fluid falls to the salivary glands. These exocrine glands are located within the soft tissues of the head and neck, either near or within the oral cavity.
Types of Salivary Glands
While the reference doesn't specify types, further research reveals there are three major pairs of salivary glands:
- Parotid glands: Located in front of the ears.
- Submandibular glands: Located under the jaw.
- Sublingual glands: Located under the tongue.
In addition to these major glands, hundreds of minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the mouth and throat.
Saliva's Journey
The salivary glands don't just produce saliva; they also excrete it. This means the saliva travels from the glands into the mouth via ducts, small tubes that act as pathways. Once in the mouth, saliva begins its work in digestion and maintaining oral hygiene.
