Süljenäärmed

Süljenäärmed, also known as salivary glands, are exocrine glands in the mouths of many animals, including humans. They produce saliva, a complex fluid that plays a crucial role in digestion, lubrication, and oral hygiene. Humans possess three major pairs of salivary glands: the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, along with numerous smaller minor salivary glands scattered throughout the oral mucosa.

The parotid glands, the largest of the three, are located in front of and below the ears. They primarily secrete serous saliva, rich in enzymes like amylase, which begins the digestion of carbohydrates. The submandibular glands, situated beneath the jawbone, produce a mixed secretion of both serous and mucous saliva, contributing a significant portion of the total saliva volume. The sublingual glands, located under the tongue, secrete mainly mucous saliva, providing lubrication.

Saliva's functions extend beyond digestion. It moistens food, aiding in bolus formation for swallowing, and contains antibacterial agents that help protect the oral cavity from infection. Saliva also helps to buffer acids, neutralizing them and preventing damage to tooth enamel. The flow of saliva is regulated by the autonomic nervous system, increasing in response to the sight, smell, or taste of food, and decreasing during sleep or dehydration. Disorders affecting salivary glands can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia), increased risk of dental caries, and difficulties with speech and swallowing.