The salivary glands are part of the human anatomy responsible for producing saliva - a liquid that moistens the mouth and helps in the digestion of food. These glands are essential for maintaining a healthy oral cavity and keeping our teeth and gums healthy. While the term "salivary glands" may be the most common identifier for this anatomical structure, there are several other synonyms used to describe it. Some of these synonyms include submaxillary gland, parotid gland, and sublingual gland. A medical professional may use any of these terms to refer to the salivary glands depending on the context and the specific gland involved.