Salivary Glands Flashcards
What is the functions of saliva?
- Functions: Prevent dehydration of oral mucosa
- Lubrication of mastication and swallowing
- Maintaining proper dental hygiene
- Assist in digestion of carbohydrates
- Act as a solvent for taste and smell
What is the composition of saliva?
Composition
- Mucin glycoproteins
- 𝜶-amylase
- proline-rich proteins
- Lactoferrin
- Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
- Lyzozyme
What is the structure of the Salivon (Basic unit of a salivary gland)
What is the ANS control of salvation? (sympathetic and parasympathetic)
Sympathetics
- produce “sticky” saliva
- fight-or-flight response
- via periarterial plexuses
Parasympathetics
- produce “runny” saliva
- rest & digest
- Parasympathetic secretomotor nerve supply
- via cranial nerves
What are the 3 majior salivary glands?
And where are they located?
Major Glands (3 bilateral pairs);
- Parotid ‘near ear’
- Submandibular ‘under mandible’
- Sublingual ‘under tongue’
Where do the 3 major glands drain into?
- Parotid gland drains near 2nd maxillary molar via parotid papilla
- Submandibular gland drains to sublingual caruncle
- Sublingual gland drains superior into mouth via sublingual fold
What are the Submandibular and Sublingual gland innervated by?
What gives taste sensation to anterior 2/3 of tongue?
Submandibular and sublingual gland are innervated by the facial nerve to receive their parasympathetic supply of axons
Corda tympani gives taste to anterior 2/3 of tongue and delivers
What is Xerostomia?
Dry mouth.
What is Sialolithiasis (Salivary Calculi)?
- Salivary calculi can form in any major or minor salivary gland
- Calculi are calcified masses
- Obstruct ducts causing swelling and pain
