Sublingual glands

Salivary glands located beneath the tongue that play a crucial role in digestion and oral health.

Sublingual glands are one of the three major pairs of salivary glands, situated underneath the floor of the mouth, specifically beneath the tongue. They are the smallest of the major salivary glands and are responsible for producing saliva, which aids in the digestion process and maintains oral hygiene. Their secretions are mucous-rich, which helps lubricate food and protect oral soft tissues from damage.

Terminologia Anatomica

glandulae sublinguales

System

Digestive system

Function

The primary function of the sublingual glands is the secretion of saliva, which is essential for the initial stages of digestion. Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that begin breaking down carbohydrates in food, making it easier to swallow and digest. Additionally, the mucous secreted from these glands keeps the mouth moist, facilitating speech and swallowing while also serving as a protective barrier against pathogens and irritants. The continuous flow of saliva from the sublingual glands helps to neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, thus playing a vital role in maintaining oral health and preventing dental decay.

Location

The sublingual glands are located in the sublingual region of the oral cavity. They are positioned bilaterally, one on each side of the midline, beneath the tongue and above the mylohyoid muscle. They open into the mouth through multiple small ducts called the Rivinus ducts, which collectively drain saliva into the floor of the mouth. This anatomical location is significant as it allows for quick and direct access of saliva to the oral cavity during the processes of eating and speaking.

Did You Know?

The sublingual glands produce a thick, mucous saliva that differs from the watery saliva secreted by the parotid glands.
These glands can often become swollen due to blockages or infections, leading to a condition known as sialadenitis.
Stimulating the taste buds can increase saliva production from the sublingual glands, which is why food often makes the mouth water.
Sublingual glands are particularly important for the digestion of carbohydrates, as their secretions contain the enzyme amylase.
In some cases, medications can be administered sublingually, as the area is well-supplied with blood vessels allowing for rapid absorption.