The sublingual gland is the smallest major salivary gland, weighing only around 0.18 ounces (5 grams). It is predominantly a mucous gland. However, the sublingual gland also produces small amounts of serous saliva. Overall, it contributes about 5% of daily saliva.

The sublingual gland is directed longitudinally and has a lentiform shape, and in fact, it resembles an almond in its form. Each gland lies below the mucosa of the oral cavity floor and above the mylohyoid muscle (Read more!).

Usually, the sublingual glands can be palpated behind the mandibular canines. Also, these glands create two mucosal elevations on the oral cavity floor called the sublingual folds. They extend from the sublingual caruncle in each posterolateral direction.

The sublingual glands are positioned in the sublingual fossae of the mandible, lying lateral to the submandibular ducts and lingual nerves (Read more!). Medially to the sublingual glands are the hyoglossus and genioglossus muscles. Both sublingual glands meet at the mental spines of the mandibular body. Here, their anterior aspects are located close to each other.

In contrast to other major salivary glands, the sublingual glands do not have discrete capsules. Instead, they are surrounded and enveloped by loose connective tissue.

Unlock with Premium

Sublingual gland