The submandibular fossa is a depression located on the lower jaw, or mandible, just below the mandibular angle. It is an important structure in human anatomy, as it plays a vital role in several important functions in the body.
Structure
The submandibular fossa is a shallow depression located on the inner surface of the mandible, just below the mandibular angle. It is bordered by the mylohyoid line anteriorly, the mandibular ramus posteriorly, and the mandibular body inferiorly. The submandibular fossa is divided into two halves by a midline ridge called the lingula.
It is home to several important structures, including the submandibular gland, the submandibular lymph nodes, and the submandibular duct. The submandibular gland is a large, salivary gland that is responsible for producing a large portion of the saliva in the mouth. It is located within the submandibular fossa, just below the mandible and above the mylohyoid muscle. The submandibular gland is divided into two lobes by a thin connective tissue septum.
The submandibular lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that are located within the submandibular fossa. These nodes are part of the lymphatic system and play a vital role in immune defense by trapping and filtering out harmful substances and microorganisms from the lymphatic fluid. The submandibular lymph nodes are connected to the submandibular gland by a network of small lymphatic vessels.
The submandibular duct, also known as the Wharton’s duct, is a long, narrow tube that carries saliva from the submandibular gland to the mouth. It begins at the posterior border of the submandibular gland and passes through the submandibular fossa, running along the mylohyoid muscle before emptying into the floor of the mouth.
Location
The submandibular fossa is located on the inner surface of the mandible, just below the mandibular angle. It is located on the lower jaw, between the mandibular ramus and the mandibular body. The submandibular fossa is situated just above the mylohyoid muscle and the sublingual gland, and is located posterior to the mandibular incisors.
Function
The submandibular fossa plays a vital role in several important functions in the body. The most important function of the submandibular fossa is the production and secretion of saliva. The submandibular gland, which is located within the submandibular fossa, is responsible for producing a large portion of the saliva in the mouth. Saliva is a vital fluid that helps to moisten and lubricate the mouth and throat, aiding in digestion and swallowing. Saliva also contains enzymes that help to break down food and neutralize harmful bacteria in the mouth.
In addition to its role in the production of saliva, the submandibular fossa also plays a vital role in immune defense. The submandibular lymph nodes, which are located within the submandibular fossa, are part of the lymphatic system and play a vital role in trapping and filtering out harmful substances and microorganisms from the lymphatic fluid.
