tuggkörtlar

Tuggkörtlar, often referred to as salivary glands in English, are exocrine glands in the oral cavity that produce saliva. These glands are crucial for maintaining oral health and facilitating digestion. Humans have 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 on either side of the face, in front of and below the ears. They primarily secrete serous saliva, a watery fluid rich in enzymes like amylase, which begins the breakdown of carbohydrates. The submandibular glands are smaller than the parotids and lie beneath the floor of the mouth. They produce a mixed secretion, containing both serous and mucous components. The sublingual glands are the smallest of the major salivary glands, situated beneath the tongue. They secrete mostly mucous saliva.

In addition to these major glands, numerous minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the lining of the mouth, contributing a continuous, albeit small, amount of saliva. Saliva's functions are manifold, including lubricating the mouth, aiding in taste perception, initiating carbohydrate digestion, buffering acids to protect tooth enamel, and providing antimicrobial properties. Disruptions to salivary gland function can lead to conditions like dry mouth (xerostomia), increasing the risk of dental caries and oral infections.