WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Salivary Glands

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:

  • The parotid glands are located between the ear and the jaw.
  • The submandibular glands are located under the jaw.
  • The sublingual glands are located on the floor of the mouth under the tongue.
  • The buccal glands are located in the mucous membrane lining the cheeks and mouth. These glands produce only a small amount of saliva.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Last Revised March 17, 2011

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: March 17, 2011
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.