What type of glands are the submandibular glands?

The submandibular glands are classified as salivary glands, which is why the chosen answer is accurate. Salivary glands are responsible for producing saliva, which aids in digestion and oral health. They are part of the exocrine system, which means they secrete their products through ducts directly to the site of action—in this case, the oral cavity.

The role of the submandibular glands specifically involves the secretion of salivary amylase, which begins the digestion of carbohydrates, and mucus, which lubricates food for easier swallowing. Being salivary glands, their primary function is directly linked to the digestive process, underscoring their importance in the oral physiological system.

While submandibular glands have exocrine characteristics due to their secretion mechanisms, they do not have endocrine functions, which involve the release of hormones directly into the bloodstream. Hence, identifying them solely as salivary glands captures their essential role without associating them incorrectly with other gland types that function differently.