They produce saliva, which moistens food to aid chewing and swallowing.
Saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestion process.
Saliva also aids in mechanical cleansing of the mouth by washing away bacteria and food particles. There are 3 pairs of salivary glands. Two submandibular glands are at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw. Two sublingual glands are under the floor of the mouth. All of the salivary glands empty saliva into the mouth through ducts that open at various locations in the mouth.