GINGIVAL GLAND Meaning and
Definition
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Gingival gland, also known as the salivary gland of the gum, refers to a minor salivary gland found in the oral cavity. These glands are located within the gingival or gum tissue and are responsible for producing and secreting saliva. Saliva is an important fluid that plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and overall well-being.
The gingival glands are a part of the larger salivary gland system in the mouth, which includes major salivary glands such as the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, as well as numerous minor salivary glands. While the major salivary glands produce the majority of saliva, the minor salivary glands, including the gingival glands, contribute to the overall saliva production.
The secretion of saliva by the gingival glands helps to lubricate the oral cavity and aids in the initial stages of digestion by moistening food and facilitating its movement through the mouth. Saliva also contains enzymes that initiate the breakdown of carbohydrates, aiding in digestion. Moreover, it helps in neutralizing acids and preventing tooth decay as well as maintaining the overall pH balance within the mouth.
In summary, the gingival gland is a minor salivary gland located in the gum tissue, contributing to the overall production of saliva in the oral cavity. Its secretion plays a vital role in maintaining oral health, lubrication, digestion, and protective functions such as neutralizing acids and preventing tooth decay.
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An infolding of the epithelium of the gum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GINGIVAL GLAND
- gingival gla.d
- gingival glafd
- gingival glald
- gingival glaod
- gingival glant
- gingival glanl
- ginngivalgland
- g ingival gland
- gi ngival gland
- gin gival gland
- ging ival gland
- gingi val gland
- gingiv al gland
- gingiva l gland
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- gingival gl and
- gingival gla nd
- gingival glan d
Etymology of GINGIVAL GLAND
The term "gingival" comes from the Latin word "gingiva", which means the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. The term "gland" is derived from the Latin word "glandula", referring to a glandular organ or secretory structure. Therefore, "gingival gland" is a combination of these terms, specifically indicating a glandular structure or organ associated with the gum tissue. It refers to the minor salivary glands found in the gingiva, which secrete saliva into the oral cavity.
