Salivary Glands Diagram
The Salivary Glands are a group of Exocrine Glands located in and around the oral cavity and throat region. They are responsible for the production and secretion of saliva, a watery fluid that plays a crucial role in various oral functions and the initial stages of digestion. The Saliva produced by the Salivary Glands helps to moisten and lubricate the mouth, which facilitates speech, swallowing and overall oral comfort. It also helps to mechanically break down food during chewing and contains enzymes that initiate the digestion of starch.
The Salivary Glands consist of three major pairs of glands
- The Parotid Glands
- The Submandibular Glands
- The Sublingual Glands.
Each gland has a specific location and contributes to saliva production.
Description of the labels in a Salivary Glands Diagram
Parotid Glands
The Parotid Glands are the largest Salivary Glands and are located in front of and below the ear. They produce saliva that is released into the mouth through the Parotid Duct near the upper second molar.
Submandibular Glands
The Submandibular Salivary Glands are located just below and deep inside the jaw, at the back of the mouth. These glands produce about 70% of the saliva in the mouth. Saliva from the Submandibular Glands is released through Warthin’s duct, which opens into the floor of the mouth under the front of the tongue.
Parotid Duct
The Parotid Duct is a tube that carries saliva from the Parotid Glands into the oral cavity. It opens near the upper second molar and allows saliva to flow into the oral cavity.
Sublingual Glands
The Sublingual Glands are located under the tongue. They produce saliva that is released into the mouth through several small ducts that open under the tongue.
Also Check – 9 Important Functions of Salivary Glands
Also Check – Digestive Glands – Definition , Types and Functions
Also Check – What is the role of Saliva in the Digestion of Food?
Also Check – Explain the Role of Mouth in Digestion of Food
Also Check – Nutrition in Human Beings
Also Check – How saliva is made
Also Check – What is the Function of the Digestive Enzymes ?
2 Comments on “Salivary Glands Diagram”