Salivary Gland Anatomy and Physiology

Abstract

In mammals, saliva is a mildly acidic secretion made mostly of water (99.5–99.8%). In a healthy state, humans produce between 500 mL and 1.5 L of saliva per day. Saliva has numerous functions including lubrication, digestion, and immunity. Salivary glands are classified as exocrine, and as such, they produce secretions (i.e., saliva) onto an epithelial surface via a system of ducts. Saliva secretion and production are mediated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS) and thus; salivary glands have both parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation.