mandibular gland
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A mandibular gland is one of a pair of salivary glands located inside the lower jaw (mandible). It is a major salivary gland responsible for producing a significant portion of saliva, particularly during sleep. It secretes saliva into the mouth through a duct that opens under the tongue.
Examples
- The mandibular gland is also clinically known as the submandibular gland.
- Inflammation of the mandibular gland can cause swelling and pain under the jaw.
- The mandibular gland produces a mixed serous and mucous secretion.
Advanced Usage
- In anatomical terminology, the mandibular gland is precisely termed the .
- The duct of the mandibular gland (Wharton's duct) opens at the sublingual caruncle beside the frenulum of the tongue.
Variants and Related Words
- Submandibular gland (n): The full anatomical term for the mandibular gland.
- Submandibular (adj): Pertaining to the area beneath the mandible, e.g., .
Synonyms
- Submandibular gland
- Submaxillary gland (an older, less precise term)
Related Phrases
- Mandibular duct: The excretory duct of the mandibular gland.
- Salivary calculus: A stone that can form within the mandibular gland or its duct, causing obstruction.
Noun
- a salivary gland inside the lower jaw on either side that produces most of the nocturnal saliva; discharges saliva into the mouth under the tongue