Sublingual gland

Definition

The sublingual gland is one of the three major salivary glands located underneath the tongue, primarily responsible for secreting saliva to help in digestion and lubricating the mouth. It produces a mucous type of saliva that acts as a lubricant.

Related terms

Saliva: A clear liquid secreted by the salivary glands in the mouth, which contains enzymes that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates.

Salivary Glands:

Glands associated with the oral cavity that produce saliva, including parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands.

Digestion:

The process by which food is broken down into smaller components that can be absorbed and assimilated by the body