It is classified on the basis of the secretion
Serous gland
This type of gland is made-up of mucous cells
These glands secrete thin and watery saliva
Ex
Parotid gland
Mucous glands
This type of glands is made up of mucous cells
These glands secrete thick and viscous saliva with more mucin
Ex
Bucccal gland and Lingual mucous glands
Mixed glands
These glands are made up of both serous and mucous cells
Ex
Submandibular and sublingual glands
Parotid glands
Largest of salivary glands
Weights- 20-30 g
Located – At the face just below and in front of the ear
Each gland has a parotid duct opening into the moth at the level of the second upper molar tooth
Submandibular glands
Also called submaxillrty glands
Weight- 8-10 g
Located in sub maxillary triangle mediak to mandible
Duct open on the floor of the mouth one on each side of the frenulum of the tongue
Sublingual glands
These are smallest glands
Weight – 2-3 g
Located in the mucosa at the floor of the mouth
They have numerous small ducts that open into the floor of the mouth
Secretion of saliva
Secretion of saliva is under autonomic nerve control
Parasympathetic stimulation causes vasodilatations and secretion of watery saliva with content of enzymes and other organic substances
Sympathetic stimulation causes vasoconstriction and secretion of small amounts of saliva rich in organic material
Reflex secretion occurs when there is food into the mouth
The reflex can easily become conditioned so that the sight , smell and the thought of food stimulates the flow of saliva
