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Salivary Gland Stones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Updated: Aug 21

Salivary gland stones, also known as sialolithiasis, are calcified structures that can form in the salivary glands, causing discomfort and potential complications. This blog aims to provide an in-depth understanding of salivary gland stones, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What Are Salivary Gland Stones?

Salivary gland stones are hardened mineral deposits that can form within the salivary glands⁽¹⁾. These stones can block the flow of saliva into the mouth, leading to swelling and pain. They most commonly occur in the submandibular glands, located beneath the jaw, but can also form in the parotid (side of the face, near the ears) and sublingual glands (under the tongue)⁽¹⁾.

"Salivary Stone" Wouter Hagens, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Salivary gland stones are relatively rare. They occur in about 1 in every 30,000 people with 80% of cases affecting the submandibular glands. Men are more likely to develop salivary stones than women, and the condition is most common in individuals aged 30 to 60⁽²⁾.

Causes of Salivary Gland Stones

The exact cause of salivary gland stones is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to their formation⁽²⁾:

Dehydration
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome
Medications: Certain medications that reduce saliva production, such as antihistamines and diuretics, can increase the risk.
Smoking
Trauma or injury to the salivary glands
Infections

Symptoms of Salivary Gland Stones

Symptoms of salivary gland stones can vary, but common signs include:

Pain and swelling in the affected gland, particularly during meals when saliva production increases.
Dry Mouth
Infection
Difficulty Swallowing
Trouble opening your mouth
Strange taste

Diagnosing Salivary Gland Stones

Diagnosing salivary gland stones typically involves a combination of physical examination and imaging studies

Physical Examination: A healthcare provider may feel the glands to detect any swelling or tenderness.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans can help visualize the stones and determine their size and location.
Sialography: A special type of X-ray using a contrast dye injected into the salivary ducts can provide detailed images of the glands and ducts.

Treatment Options

Treatment for salivary gland stones depends on the size and location of the stone and the severity of the symptoms:

Hydration and Massage: Increasing fluid intake and gently massaging the gland can help small stones pass naturally.
Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can alleviate symptoms. In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Sialogogues: These are substances that stimulate saliva flow, such as sour candies, which can help dislodge small stones.
Minimally Invasive Procedures: Techniques such as sialendoscopy⁽¹⁾ involve using a small endoscope to remove the stone. This procedure is less invasive and has a quicker recovery time.
Surgery: In cases where the stone is too large or not accessible by less invasive methods, surgical removal of the stone or affected gland may be necessary.

Preventing Salivary Gland Stones

While salivary gland stones cannot be prevented altogether, some measures can reduce the risk:

Stay hydrated
Practice good oral hygiene
Avoid smoking
Reducing intake of excess foods high in calcium

Seek Help for Salivary Gland Stones in Hollywood, FL

If you suspect you have a salivary gland stone, it's essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our team at ENT Family can provide personalized treatment options and advice to help you manage and prevent salivary gland stones effectively.

Address: 3911 Hollywood Blvd#201, Hollywood, FL 33021, United States

Phone: 754-888-1368

Email: info@entfamily.com

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