Saliva is produced by various glands in the mouth.
Saliva Production: A Detailed Look
Saliva isn't "prepared" in the traditional sense of being mixed or formulated; rather, it's a naturally secreted fluid produced by salivary glands. The production process involves multiple glands working together to create the complex mixture we know as saliva. According to the provided reference, saliva production is a result of secretion from several glands.
Major Salivary Glands
- Parotid Glands: These are the largest salivary glands, located in front of the ears.
- Submandibular Glands: Found under the jaw, these glands contribute significantly to saliva production.
- Sublingual Glands: Situated under the tongue, these are the smallest of the major salivary glands.
These three pairs of major glands are responsible for approximately 90% of total saliva secretions.
Minor Salivary Glands
Numerous minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the oral cavity. These contribute to the remaining 10% of saliva production.
Glandular Contribution
Here's a summary of the saliva contributions of the major and minor salivary glands:
| Salivary Gland Type | Percentage Contribution | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Major Glands | 90% | Parotid, Submandibular, Sublingual |
| Minor Glands | 10% | Throughout Oral Cavity |
In conclusion, saliva is not prepared but rather produced through the secretions of major and minor salivary glands within the oral cavity. The parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands are the primary contributors to saliva production.
