There are three major salivary glands that are arranged in pairs, called the parotid, sublingual and submandibular glands. They primarily produce the saliva which moistens the mouth.

The parotid gland is located near the ear, the sublingual gland is located beneath the tongue and above the submandibular gland which is located in the floor of the mouth.

Saliva contains a digestive enzyme, called amylase, which is brought into the mouth via ducts. Saliva enables food to be moistened and dissolved and makes chewing and swallowing much easier.