# What are salivary glands and what is their function in the body? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-alghudud-allaabiya-wama-wazifatuha-fi-aljism Language: en Category: ent Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.980Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.980Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hiya-alghudud-allaabiya-wama-wazifatuha-fi-aljism Salivary glands are an essential part of the digestive system and oral health, responsible for producing saliva, which performs multiple vital functions. These glands are located in the mouth and are divided into three main pairs of major salivary glands, in addition to hundreds of minor glands distributed throughout the mouth [\[1\]](). ## Types and Locations of Major Salivary Glands The major salivary glands are distributed in specific areas in and around the mouth, including: - **Parotid glands:** These glands are located just in front of and below each ear [\[1\]](). - **Submandibular glands:** These glands are found under the lower jaw [\[1\]](). - **Sublingual glands:** These glands are located under the tongue [\[1\]](). In addition to these major glands, there are hundreds of minor salivary glands that contribute to saliva production [\[1\]](). ## Basic Functions of Saliva Saliva produced by these glands is secreted into the mouth through special ducts. Saliva performs many vital functions that go beyond simply moisturizing the mouth: - **Assisting in digestion:** Saliva moistens food, which facilitates chewing and swallowing and helps initiate the food digestion process [\[1\]](). - **Maintaining oral hygiene:** Saliva contains antibodies that kill bacteria, helping to maintain oral hygiene and health [\[1\]](). - **Protection against decay and infections:** Thanks to its antibacterial properties, saliva reduces the risk of tooth decay and oral infections [\[1\]](). ## The Impact of Salivary Gland Problems When salivary glands are damaged or do not produce enough saliva, it can negatively affect several aspects of health. These effects may include difficulty tasting food, increased difficulty chewing and swallowing, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay, tooth loss, and oral infections [\[1\]](). Salivary gland problems can cause irritation and swelling, with symptoms such as dry mouth, pain in the face or mouth, and swelling in the face or neck [\[2\]](). ## When Should You See a Doctor? If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to evaluate the condition and determine the cause: - Persistent dry mouth. - Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing. - Pain or swelling in the face, neck, or under the tongue. - The presence of a lump in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth [\[1\]](). - A change in the sense of taste or the appearance of a bad taste in the mouth [\[2\]](). - Numbness or weakness in the face, which may indicate a more serious problem [\[1\]](). These symptoms may be related to salivary gland inflammation or other conditions that require medical intervention. For more information about salivary gland inflammation, you can visit [Salivary Gland Inflammation: Swelling and Pain When Eating (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Saliva & Salivary Gland Disorders]() - [Salivary Gland Disorders]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-alghudud-allaabiya-wama-wazifatuha-fi-aljism#answer