Sublingual glands

Definition

Sublingual glands are one of the three major pairs of salivary glands, located beneath the tongue, responsible for secreting saliva to aid in digestion and oral lubrication. Unlike other salivary glands, most of their secretion is mucous in nature, helping to efficiently moisten and lubricate food for easier swallowing.

Related terms

Saliva: A clear liquid secreted by the salivary glands in the mouth, containing enzymes that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates.

Digestion:

The process by which food is broken down into smaller components that can be absorbed into the bloodstream for use by the body.

Mucous Membrane: A layer of epithelial tissue which secretes mucus that lines various cavities in the body and covers the surface of internal organs