chapter 15 salivary glands and tonsils copyright © 2014 by mosby, an imprint of elsevier inc

Chapter 15

Salivary Glands and Tonsils

Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.


After reading this chapter, the student will be able to: Discuss the classification of the major and minor

salivary glands. Explain the composition and function of saliva. Describe the location and purpose of salivary

gland duct systems. Discuss the classification of tonsillar tissue. Explain the function of the tonsils.

Copyright © 2014 by Mosby, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. 2


Classification of salivary glands Major salivary glands Minor salivary glands Saliva Myoepithelial cells

Classification of tonsillar tissue Palatine tonsils Lingual tonsils Pharyngeal tonsil

Function of tonsils


Classifications of Salivary Glands

Major or minor, depending on their size and the amount of their secretion: Major glands carry their secretion some distance

to the oral cavity by means of a main duct. Minor glands empty their products directly into the

mouth by means of short ducts.



Cell composition: Serous cells Mucous cells Serous demilunes

Functional unit: Alveolus or acinus



Serous cells: High in proteins Low in carbohydrates Zymogen granules

• Amylase

Mucous cells: High in carbohydrates Low in proteins Mucin


Major Salivary Glands


Minor Salivary Glands


Saliva Composition


Saliva Functions

To wash the tooth surfaces and prevent the possibility of acid etching

To maintain moisture and protect against irritants and desiccation

To aid in mastication and swallowing To provide antibacterial action To assist in pellicle formation To provide protection in acid-neutralizing and

acid-buffering actions


Saliva Functions

Calcium and phosphate increase enamel hardness and assist in enamel remineralization.

Saliva is necessary for taste. Salivary proteinslysozymes, lactoperoxidase, and

lactoferrinhave antimicrobial properties. Saliva has antibodies or immunoglobulin such as

immunoglobulin A (IgA). Saliva contains an epidermal growth factor (EGF). Saliva contains nerve growth factor (NGF). Taste, smell, and nerve endings in the periodontal

ligament and muscles of mastication play a role in saliva secretion.


Salivary Duct Systems


Salivary Duct Systems

Stensen duct drains the parotid gland.

Wharton duct drains the submandibular gland.


Innervation of the Salivary Glands


Myoepithelial Cells


Classification of Tonsillar Tissue

Waldeyer ring Pharyngeal tonsil or

adenoid Palatine tonsils Lingual tonsils


Palatine Tonsils


Lingual Tonsils


Pharyngeal Tonsil


Functions of Tonsils

They produce lymphocytes. Some lymphocytes transform into T cells and

engulf bacteria or discharge substances to destroy them.

Other lymphocytes transform into B cells, which differentiate into plasma cells .

Some foreign substances are absorbed from the gland crypts into the gland proper and are then destroyed.


Questions and Considerations

Considering saliva function, what are some good patient education points?

Discuss drugs and medications that can contribute to decrease salivary flow.

Why is salivary flow important to older patients?

How should the dental professional respond to the mother’s question about having her child’s tonsils removed?


chapter 15 salivary glands and tonsils copyright © 2014 by mosby, an imprint of elsevier inc

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