# What are the main salivary glands in the human body and where are they located? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-main-salivary-glands-and-where-are-they-located Language: en Category: oncology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.978Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.978Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-are-the-main-salivary-glands-and-where-are-they-located Salivary glands are responsible for producing and secreting saliva into the mouth. Saliva plays a vital role in the primary digestive process through the enzymes it contains, and it also provides protection against infection in the mouth and throat thanks to the antibodies it contains. There are three main pairs of salivary glands in the human body, in addition to hundreds of minor salivary glands spread throughout the mouth, nose, and throat [\[1\]](). ## The Main Salivary Glands and Their Locations The main salivary glands are distributed in specific areas of the head and neck, with each having a distinct location and function: - **Parotid glands:** These are the largest of the main salivary glands. Each parotid gland is located just in front of and slightly below the ear [\[1\]](). Most tumors that affect the major salivary glands begin in the parotid gland [\[1\]](). - **Submandibular glands:** These glands are located below the jawbone [\[1\]](). - **Sublingual glands:** These glands are found under the tongue on the floor of the mouth [\[1\]](). In addition to these major glands, there are hundreds of minor salivary glands lining parts of the mouth, nose, and throat that can only be seen with a microscope. Most minor salivary gland tumors start in the roof of the mouth (palate) [\[1\]](). ## Functions and Importance of Saliva The saliva produced by the salivary glands is essential for many vital functions in the mouth. It moistens food, which facilitates chewing and swallowing and helps initiate the digestion of food [\[2\]](). Saliva also maintains oral cleanliness and health because it contains antibodies that fight germs and provide protection against infection [\[2\]](). ## Symptoms of Salivary Gland Problems Some symptoms may indicate a problem with the salivary glands, including salivary gland cancer. These symptoms include the appearance of a (usually painless) lump in the area of the ear, cheek, jaw, lip, or inside the mouth, in addition to difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth wide, numbness or weakness in the face, or persistent facial pain [\[1\]](). Some cases of salivary gland cancer may not cause any symptoms and may be discovered during a routine dental or physical examination [\[1\]](). ## When Should You See a Doctor? If you notice any new lump or swelling in the salivary gland area, feel persistent pain, experience difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth, or notice any numbness or weakness in the face, it is important to see a doctor to evaluate these symptoms. These symptoms may be caused by salivary gland cancer or other conditions, and a thorough medical evaluation is required to determine the cause [\[1\]](). You can learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of salivary gland cancer by visiting the [Salivary Gland Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery (Arabic)]() page. ## Medical references - [Salivary Gland Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version]() - [Saliva & Salivary Gland Disorders]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-main-salivary-glands-and-where-are-they-located#answer