Spytkirtlernes

Spytkirtlernes, meaning salivary glands in Danish, refers to the exocrine glands responsible for producing saliva. These glands are crucial for the initial stages of digestion, lubrication of the oral cavity, and maintaining oral hygiene. 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. They secrete a watery, enzyme-rich saliva primarily through Stensen's duct into the mouth, opposite the upper molars. The submandibular glands, situated beneath the lower jaw, produce a mixed saliva containing both watery and mucous components. Their ducts, known as Wharton's ducts, open on the floor of the mouth. The sublingual glands, the smallest of the major glands, lie beneath the tongue and secrete mostly mucous saliva through multiple small ducts called ducts of Rivinus.

In addition to these major glands, numerous minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the oral mucosa, contributing a small but constant amount of saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva plays a vital role in breaking down carbohydrates, facilitating swallowing, protecting teeth from decay, and acting as a conduit for taste. Disorders affecting salivary glands can range from infections and inflammation to the formation of stones and tumors, impacting a person's ability to eat, speak, and maintain oral health.