What Are Submandibular Glands?
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.
