The major salivary glands, located on the floor of the mouth and around the jaw, are responsible for producing saliva that keeps the mouth and throat moist and aids in digestion. These include the parotid, submandibular, and sublingual glands, along with numerous minor salivary glands scattered throughout the oral cavity.

Salivary gland cancer is relatively rare and may arise in any of these glands. While there is no single known cause, possible risk factors include exposure to radiation or radioactive substances.