Salivary Secretion Mechanism Quiz

Salivary Glands and Saliva Composition

• Primary saliva formation occurs within the salivary glands, specifically in the acini.
• The parotid, submaxillary, and sublingual glands are the three primary salivary glands.
• These glands are classified as exocrine glands, responsible for producing saliva.

Saliva Composition

• The main component of primary saliva is water, which makes up about 99% of saliva.
• The primary composition of saliva is a mixture of water, electrolytes, and organic substances, including enzymes, glycoproteins, and other substances.

Parotid Gland

• The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland and produces a serous-type saliva, which is rich in enzymes.
• The parotid gland is predominantly composed of serous acini.

Submaxillary and Sublingual Glands

• The submaxillary gland produces a mixed-type saliva, which is rich in both enzymes and mucins.
• The sublingual gland produces a mucous-type saliva, which is rich in mucins.
• The sublingual glands are located below the buccal floor, near the submandibular duct.

Saliva Production and Regulation

• Ductal transport of water and electrolytes is the first stage of saliva production.
• The second stage of saliva production involves the adjustment of water and electrolytes by ducts in salivary glands.
• Salivary secretion is controlled in two main phases: the cephalic phase and the gastrointestinal phase.
• The cephalic phase of salivary secretion occurs when we think about or see food, and our brain signals our salivary glands to prepare for eating.
• The gastrointestinal phase of salivary secretion starts during the oral processing of food.

Saliva Function

• The primary function of salivary amylase is to break down starches into simpler sugars.
• Saliva plays a role in maintaining the health and trophicity of oral tissues.
• The main role of saliva in the digestive process is to break down food and facilitate swallowing.

Additional Facts

• Accessory salivary glands are found in the submucosal layer throughout the oral mucosa and are more concentrated in the palate.
• Saliva is not a simple mixture, but a complex fluid with multiple components.
• The parotid duct opens near the second upper molar, not the first upper molar.

Test your knowledge about the complex mixture of secretions from the main and accessory salivary glands, the mechanism of saliva elaboration, and the stages of saliva production.