Dental Assistant Practice Exam

Which salivary gland is the largest but contributes only 25% of total saliva volume?

1. Sublingual glands

2. Submandibular glands

3. Parotid glands

4. Mandibular glands

The correct answer is: Parotid glands

The parotid glands are indeed the largest salivary glands in the human body, located near the upper jaw and extending to the area in front of the ear. Despite their size, they contribute only about 25% of the total saliva volume produced during saliva secretion. The primary role of the parotid glands is to produce a serous, watery secretion that is rich in enzymes, particularly amylase, which helps in the digestion of carbohydrates. In contrast, the other glands mentioned have different functions and compositions. The submandibular glands, while smaller than the parotid glands, produce a higher percentage of the total saliva volume, around 60-65%. These glands provide both serous and mucous secretion, contributing to the overall function of saliva in digestion and lubrication. The sublingual glands produce primarily mucous secretions and contribute a smaller volume of saliva than both the parotid and submandibular glands. The mandibular glands are not typically recognized as a distinct group of salivary glands in the same way as the other three, leading to some confusion. Therefore, understanding the roles and contributions of these salivary glands helps clarify why the parotid gland is identified as the largest but only