Parotid gland

The parotid gland is the largest of the salivary glands. Located at the angle of the mandible, the duct to this gland empties within the buccal cavity (the inside of the cheek).

The facial nerve runs through this gland but paradoxically does not control it. Secretion of saliva by the parotid gland is controlled by the glossopharyngeal nerve.

Serous fluid (as opposed to mucous fluid) is produced by the parotid gland.