Which glands produce saliva to keep the mouth and pharynx moist?

Salivary glands are specifically responsible for producing saliva, which is essential for maintaining moisture in the mouth and pharynx. There are three major pairs of salivary glands: the parotid glands, submandibular glands, and sublingual glands. Saliva plays a crucial role in digestion, as it contains enzymes that begin the breakdown of food, and it also helps with swallowing and maintaining oral hygiene by washing away food particles and bacteria.

Endocrine glands, while critical for regulating bodily functions through hormones, do not produce saliva. The thyroid glands specifically manage metabolism and hormonal balance rather than saliva production. Adrenal glands are involved in the body's stress response and produce hormones like adrenaline, but they are not connected to saliva production or the moisture of the mouth and pharynx. Hence, the unique role of salivary glands in producing saliva makes them the correct answer to the question.