You just got your fourth Salivary Glands

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In summary, salivary glands are small glands in our mouths that produce saliva to aid in digestion and keep our mouths moist. We have three pairs of salivary glands, but some individuals may also have a fourth accessory parotid gland. This gland serves the same function as the others, but is smaller and less active. While it is not common, having a fourth salivary gland is not considered abnormal. However, in rare cases, it may cause discomfort or obstruction of the salivary duct, leading to potential health problems. If any symptoms occur, it is important to consult with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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.Scott
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It will make your mouth water - or perhaps your throat. A fourth set of salivary glands have been discovered - near the middle of the human skull.
Doctors in the Netherlands made this surprising discovery while using a PSMA PET/CT scan on cancer patient. They documented their discovery in this article - Radiotherapy and Oncology Article. Being oncologists, the thesis of the article is that, as with all salivary glands, these need to be avoided during radiotherapy.

One thing this suggests to me is that salivary glands must be pretty reliable - since these new ones (the "Tuberial Salivary Glands") have never given doctors notice before.
 
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Wow, salivary glands are becoming as common as the proverbial water pump.
 

1. What are salivary glands?

Salivary glands are a group of organs in the mouth that produce saliva, which is a clear liquid that helps with digestion and lubrication of food.

2. How many salivary glands do humans have?

Humans typically have three pairs of major salivary glands: the parotid glands, submandibular glands, and sublingual glands. However, some people may have additional minor salivary glands.

3. What is the function of salivary glands?

The main function of salivary glands is to produce saliva, which helps with the initial digestion of food and also keeps the mouth moist. Saliva also contains enzymes that aid in breaking down food particles.

4. What happens if you have a fourth salivary gland?

Having a fourth salivary gland is not a common occurrence, but it is possible. It may not have any significant impact on a person's health or function, as long as the gland is functioning properly and not causing any issues.

5. Can a person live without salivary glands?

While it is possible to live without salivary glands, it can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Saliva plays an essential role in oral health, digestion, and speech. Without saliva, a person may experience dry mouth, difficulty chewing and swallowing, and an increased risk of dental problems.

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