Write the function of salivary glands.

Dear Student

There are three basic types of salivary glands:

1) Parotid glands

2) Submaxillary glands

3) Sublingual glands

Functions of saliva are:

1) Lubrication and binding of food: It helps in lubrication of food as well as the mouth parts and oesophagus for the smooth movement of food. 

2) Solubilises the dry food material

3) It keeps the mouth clean

4) Starch digestion: Saliva contains amylases which digest starch. So, starch digestion begins in the mouth itself.

5) Provides an alkaline environment in the mouth.

Regards