What is another name for the parotid duct?

The parotid duct, also known as Stensen's duct, is a structure that plays a vital role in the drainage of saliva from the parotid gland into the oral cavity. This duct is named after the Danish anatomist Nikolai Stenson, who first described it in detail. Understanding the anatomy of the parotid duct is important in dental practice, as it is frequently involved in conditions such as salivary gland stones or infections, and it is crucial for maintaining oral health.

In contrast, Wharton's duct specifically refers to the duct associated with the submandibular gland, and is not related to the parotid gland. The term "salivary duct" is a general descriptor that could refer to any duct transporting saliva but does not specifically identify the parotid duct. Lastly, the term "mandibular duct" is not commonly used in anatomical terminology and could lead to confusion, as it does not refer to any recognized salivary duct.