Submandibular duct
Submandibular Duct
The Submandibular Duct (pronunciation: sub-man-dib-u-lar duct), also known as Wharton's Duct, is a significant structure in the human anatomy.
Etymology
The term "Submandibular Duct" is derived from its location beneath the mandible (lower jawbone). It is also named after the British anatomist, Thomas Wharton, who first described it in detail.
Definition
The Submandibular Duct is a tube-like structure that carries saliva from the submandibular gland to the floor of the mouth, where it is released near the lingual frenulum.
Structure and Function
The duct begins at the deep part of the submandibular gland and runs forward between the mylohyoid muscle and the hyoglossus muscle. It then turns medially, around the posterior free margin of the mylohyoid muscle, and opens into the oral cavity at the sublingual caruncle, located lateral to the lingual frenulum. The primary function of the Submandibular Duct is to transport saliva, which aids in digestion and maintains oral health.
Related Terms
- Submandibular gland: A salivary gland located beneath the lower jaw, responsible for producing around 60-65% of the total volume of saliva.
- Lingual frenulum: A small fold of mucous membrane extending from the floor of the mouth to the midline of the underside of the tongue.
- Mylohyoid muscle: A paired muscle running from the mandible to the hyoid bone, forming the floor of the oral cavity.
- Hyoglossus muscle: A thin, quadrilateral muscle that depresses and retracts the tongue.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Submandibular duct
- Wikipedia's article - Submandibular duct
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