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Alternative names Return to top
SialolithiasisDefinition Return to top
Salivary duct stones are crystallized minerals in the ducts that drain the salivary glands. Salivary duct stones are one of the salivary gland disorders.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
During eating, saliva (spit) is produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. The chemicals in saliva can crystallize into a stone that can block the salivary ducts. When saliva cannot exit a blocked duct, it backs up into the gland, causing pain and swelling of the gland. The submandibular glands, at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw, are most often affected by stones.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
An examination of the head and neck by the health care provider or dentist shows one or more enlarged, tender salivary glands. The doctor may be able to feel the stone during examination.Treatment Return to top
The goal is to remove the stone. The health care provider or dentist may be able to push the stone out of the duct. In some cases, the stone may need to be surgically cut out.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Salivary duct stones are uncomfortable, but not dangerous. The stone is usually removed with only minimal discomfort.
If the patient has repeated stones or infections, the affected salivary gland may need to be surgically removed.
Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate that salivary duct stones may be present. Update Date: 5/6/2003 Updated by: Jason Newman, M.D., Department of Otolaryngology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, Washington, DC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |