Anatomical structures of the head involved in digestive functions. Saliva produced in the three salivary glands (sublingual,submandibular,and parotid) is delivered to the oral cavity via salivary ducts. Saliva serves multiple functions: lubricating and cleansing the mouth,dissolving food so that it can be detected by taste buds,and secreting enzymes that begin the chemical breakdown of starches. Swallowing,or deglutition,is a complicated process involving over twenty-two muscle groups and the coordination of the tongue,soft palate,pharynx,and esophagus |