There are 4 major salivary glands-the parotid glands (1 each side), and submandibular glands (1 each side). These produce saliva that enters the mouth when eating through tubes (ducts) that connect the gland with the mouth.

These glands can be affected by problems with the ducts (stones/narrowing), inflammation or infection and tumours (most of which are benign).

In addition to the major glands, above, there are smaller glands in the floor of the mouth (sub-lingual glands) and many unnamed minor salivary glands in the lining of the mouth and throat.

For more information, see:

http://www.entuk.org.uk/patient_info/headneck/submandibular_html

http://www.entuk.org.uk/patient_info/headneck/parotid_html

http://www.entuk.org.uk/patient_info/downloads/submandibular.pdf

http://www.entuk.org.uk/patient_info/downloads/parotid06.pdf