HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What are the small minor salivary glands located in the cheek referred to as?

1. Salivary Glands

2. Buccal Glands

3. Cervical Glands

4. Palatine Glands

The correct answer is: Buccal Glands

The small minor salivary glands located in the cheek are referred to as buccal glands. These glands are essential for maintaining oral health as they produce saliva, which helps in lubricating the oral cavity, facilitating digestion, and protecting against pathogens. The term "buccal" specifically pertains to the cheeks within the oral cavity, differentiating these glands from others that are located in different areas. Salivary glands as a broader category include both major glands, like the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, and other minor glands located throughout the mouth. Cervical glands typically refer to salivary glands located in the neck area, while palatine glands refer to those situated in the palate. Understanding the specific regions where these glands are located is crucial for dental terminology and identifying their functions within oral health.