Parotid Gland and Submandibular Triangle - LO 7

7. What is the function of the submandibular gland, and how does the submandibular gland connect to the oral cavity?

The submandibular gland is the primary supplier of saliva to the oral cavity. The submandibular gland is connected to the oral cavity via the submandibular (Wharton’s) duct. It traverses the space between the submandibular gland and sublingual caruncle. The duct is located between the hypoglossal n. and lingual n. in association with the hyoglossus m. The lingual n. passes deep to the duct about midway in the oral cavity. The sublingual caruncle is situated at the confluence of the sublingual folds and the lingual frenulum. The sublingual caruncle is the location where the submandibular (Wharton’s) ducts secrete saliva into the oral cavity.