Salivary glands produce saliva, which moistens the mouth to help a person chew and swallow food. Saliva also contains substances (enzymes) that begin the breakdown of food.
There are four pairs of salivary glands, four glands on each side:
The parotid glands are between the ear and the jaw.
The submandibular glands are under the jaw.
The sublingual glands are on the floor of the mouth under the tongue.
The buccal glands are in the mucous membrane lining the cheeks and mouth. These glands produce only a small amount of saliva.
Current as of: October 19, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.