Topic 2: Salivary Glands

Salivary glands are classified into major and minor based on size and function.

  • Major Salivary Glands

    • There are three paired major salivary glands

      • Parotid Glands

        • Largest salivary glands

        • Located near the ear, in front of the masseter muscle

        • Secretes serous (watery, enzyme-rich) saliva

        • Drains via Stensen's duct into the oral cavity opposite the upper second molar

      • Submandibular Glands

        • Located beneath the jaw (mandible)

        • Produces mixed saliva (mostly serous, some mucous)

        • Drains via Wharton’s duct near the lingual frenulum

      • Sublingual Glands

        • Smallest of the major glands, located under the tongue

        • Produces mainly mucous saliva

        • Drains via multiple small ducts (Rivinus ducts) into the floor of the mouth

  • Minor Salivary Glands

    • Minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the oral mucosa, lips, tongue, and palate.

    • They mostly produce mucous secretion (except for Von Ebner’s glands, which produce serous secretion).

    • They play a significant role in keeping the oral cavity moist and lubricated. They are named based on the area of their location:

      • Labial glands (lips)

      • Buccal glands (cheeks)

      • Palatine glands (hard and soft palate)

      • Lingual glands (tongue)

  • Functions of Salivary Glands

    • Salivary glands play a crucial role in maintaining oral and overall health. Their primary functions include:

      1. Lubrication & Protection

        • Mucous secretion keeps the oral mucosa moist, preventing dryness and irritation.

        • Forms a protective barrier against mechanical injury, pathogens, and toxins.

      2. Digestion

        • Amylase begins carbohydrate digestion by breaking down starch into maltose.

        • Lipase helps in the digestion of lipids.

      3. Antimicrobial Action

        • Lysozyme, lactoferrin, and IgA (antibodies) help inhibit bacterial growth and maintain oral microbiome balance

        • Helps prevent infections like dental caries and periodontal disease.

      4. Buffering & pH Regulation

        • Bicarbonate in saliva maintains an optimal pH (6.2-7.6), preventing acid erosion and dental caries.

      5. Taste Perception

        • Saliva dissolves food particles, enabling taste buds to detect flavours.

      6. Tooth Remineralization

        • Calcium and phosphate in saliva help remineralise enamel, reducing the risk of cavities.

      7. Wound Healing

        • Growth factors in saliva aid in tissue repair and healing of minor oral wounds.