Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Submandibular Glands?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

The submandibular glands are a pair of salivary glands located in the bottom of the mouth, on each side of the lower jaw. The primary function of the submandibular glands is to control the release saliva into the area of the mouth that is located just under the tongue. These glands, which are often referred to as submaxillary glands, are one of the three types of salivary glands, along with the parotid and sublingual glands.

The submandibular glands are round in shape and lie just in front of a muscle known as the sternomastoid muscle. Above these glands, but under the tongue, is a mucous membrane that covers the floor of the mouth. The salivary glands are connected to a duct system that controls the flow of saliva into the mouth. The release of saliva from these ducts and into the mouth is particularly beneficial at night, because it keeps the mouth from drying out during sleep.

The release of saliva from the submandibular glands prevents the mouth from drying out during sleep.
The release of saliva from the submandibular glands prevents the mouth from drying out during sleep.

The submandibular duct measures approximately 2 inches (5 cm) long. It is considerably thinner than some of the other salivary ducts. This is the duct that is responsible for draining saliva from the submandibular and sublingual glands and for emptying the saliva at the base of the tongue.

The submandibular duct causes the saliva to flow in somewhat of an uphill direction. This sometimes can lead to minor discomfort because of swelling and the formation of salivary stones. In most cases, this is merely an annoyance to the patient and not a major medical concern. Many times, the discomfort associated with the swelling and stone formation can be remedied by something as simple as sucking on something sour, such as a lemon wedge or dill pickle. This activity is aimed at increasing the production of saliva, which can in turn rid the body of the stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.

Sucking on a lemon may help rid the body of any salivary stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.
Sucking on a lemon may help rid the body of any salivary stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.

In the event that large stones develop or other abnormalities are present, surgery sometimes is performed. However, most people will never experience altered performance of the submandibular glands. In the rare cases that there is a medical concern involving these glands, both a maxillofacial surgeon and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon are qualified and generally experienced in treating such disorders.

The submandibular glands are located on each side of the lower jaw.
The submandibular glands are located on each side of the lower jaw.

The submandibular duct is often referred to as Wharton's duct. It is named after the English anatomist, Thomas Wharton, who is often credited with the discovery of this duct in 1656. The duct was actually described, however, in about 1500 by Alessandro Achillini.

Discussion Comments

Nefertini

@Ceptorbi - In addition to Sjogren's, other possible reasons for submandibular swelling include infection, stones in the gland, or tumors.

Ceptorbi

One possible cause of submandibular swelling is Sjogren's Syndrome. A rare arthritis, Sjogren's affects the moisturizing glands of the body including the salivary and lacrimal glands. Symptoms involving the salivary glands besides swelling include decreased production of saliva.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The release of saliva from the submandibular glands prevents the mouth from drying out during sleep.
      By: vgstudio
      The release of saliva from the submandibular glands prevents the mouth from drying out during sleep.
    • Sucking on a lemon may help rid the body of any salivary stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.
      By: IngridHS
      Sucking on a lemon may help rid the body of any salivary stones that have formed in the submandibular glands.
    • The submandibular glands are located on each side of the lower jaw.
      By: CLIPAREA.com
      The submandibular glands are located on each side of the lower jaw.
    • The submandibular glands cause saliva to flow in an uphill direction.
      By: Adrian Costea
      The submandibular glands cause saliva to flow in an uphill direction.
    • Damaged salivary glands may occur as a result of bulimia.
      By: Sylvie Bouchard
      Damaged salivary glands may occur as a result of bulimia.