The submandibular glands are salivary glands located in the lower part of the mouth that control the release of saliva. They are connected to ducts that prevent the mouth from drying out during sleep. The submandibular duct, also known as Wharton’s duct, can cause discomfort due to swelling and stone formation, but can usually be resolved with acidic substances. Surgery is sometimes necessary for large stones or abnormalities.
The submandibular glands are a pair of salivary glands located in the lower part of the mouth, on each side of the lower jaw. The primary function of the submandibular glands is to control the release of saliva into the area of the mouth that sits just below the tongue. These glands, often called the submaxillary glands, are one of three types of salivary glands, along with the parotid and sublingual glands.
The submandibular glands are round in shape and sit just in front of a muscle known as the sternomastoid muscle. Above these glands, but below the tongue, is a mucous membrane that covers the floor of the mouth. The salivary glands are connected to a system of ducts that control the flow of saliva in the mouth. The release of saliva from these ducts and into the mouth is particularly beneficial during the night, because it prevents the mouth from drying out during sleep.
The submandibular duct measures approximately 2 inches (5 cm) in length. It is considerably thinner than some of the other salivary ducts. This is the duct that is responsible for the drainage of saliva from the submandibular and sublingual glands and for emptying the saliva at the base of the tongue.
The submandibular duct causes saliva to flow in a slightly ascending direction. This can sometimes lead to minor discomfort due to swelling and saliva stone formation. In most cases, this is simply a nuisance to the patient and not a serious medical problem. Many times, the discomfort associated with swelling and stone formation can be resolved with something as simple as sucking on something acidic, like a wedge of lemon or dill pickle. This activity is intended to increase the production of saliva, which can in turn rid the body of stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.
If large stones develop or other abnormalities are present, surgery is sometimes done. However, most people will never experience impaired performance of the submandibular glands. In the rare instances where there is a medical problem involving these glands, both a maxillofacial surgeon and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon are qualified and usually experienced in treating such disorders.
The submandibular duct is often referred to as Wharton’s duct. It takes its name from the English anatomist Thomas Wharton, who is often credited with discovering this duct in 1656. The duct was actually described, however, around 1500 by Alessandro Acillini.
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