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Salivary Gland Disorders

The salivary glands are each comprised of thousands of sacs that produce saliva, which is secreted into the mouth through ducts.

What is it?

The three sets of salivary glands, located at the sides of the mouth below the ears (parotid glands), below the jaw (submandibular glands), and in the floor of the mouth (sublingual glands), secrete saliva into the mouth through tiny ducts. Saliva aids in swallowing, prevents infection, and helps keep the mouth and teeth clean. The salivary glands can malfunction in a number of ways: too much or too little saliva may be produced; the glands may become infected; the ducts may be blocked by a plug, known as a stone; rarely, tumors (either cancerous or benign) may develop within the glands. Treatment depends upon the underlying problem. If one salivary gland needs to be removed (say, in the case of a malignant tumor), the remaining glands compensate and produce adequate amounts of saliva.

What Causes It?

  • Bacteria and viruses may cause infections of the salivary gland.
  • Chemicals in the saliva may solidify into a salivary duct stone.
  • The cause of salivary gland tumors is unknown.
  • Swelling of the salivary glands or a decrease in salivation may be caused by a number of factors, including: other disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, cirrhosis, Sjögren's syndrome, depression, and dehydration; treatments such as radiation therapy to the head and neck; and medications including antihistamines, antidepressants, and some combinations of antihypertensive drugs.
  • Excessive salivation may be caused by certain salivary gland infections.

Prevention

  • There is no known way to prevent salivary gland disorders.

Diagnosis

  • Patient history and physical examination, either by a physician or dentist.
  • Dental x-rays.
  • CT (computed tomography) scans.
  • Biopsy of affected salivary glands.

How to Treat It

  • Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial infections of the salivary glands.
  • Antifungal agents may be needed to treat yeast infections of the mouth occurring in those with decreased saliva.

When to Call a Doctor

  • See your doctor if you develop pain or swelling in or around the mouth or cheek, or if you experience an increase or decrease in saliva production.