Speicheldrüsen

Speicheldrüsen are exocrine glands in the mouths of many animals, including humans, that produce saliva. Saliva plays a crucial role in the initial stages of digestion, moistening food to aid in swallowing and containing enzymes like amylase that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates. Beyond digestion, saliva is also essential for lubricating the mouth, facilitating speech, and protecting the oral tissues through its antibacterial properties and buffering capacity.

In humans, there are three major pairs of salivary glands: the parotid glands, the submandibular glands, and the sublingual glands. The parotid glands are the largest and are located in front of and below the ears. The submandibular glands are found beneath the jaw, and the sublingual glands are located under the tongue. In addition to these major glands, numerous smaller minor salivary glands are distributed throughout the oral mucosa. Each type of gland contributes differently to the composition of saliva, with some producing more serous fluid containing enzymes, and others producing more mucous fluid. Dysfunction of these glands can lead to conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia), which can have significant impacts on oral health and overall well-being.