Salivary gland stones or sometimes also known as salivary duct stones is when a calcified structure forms on the inside of the salivary gland or duct. When this occurs, saliva is blocked and unable to flow out and into the mouth. This can sometimes cause a problem. There are multiple parotid glands located in the mouth that can develop these calcified structures. These glands can be found on the inside of the cheek and underneath the tongue. ENT Specialists will share the causes and symptoms of salivary gland stones and what treatments or procedures can help relieve this issue should you find you have one.
A salivary stone forms when certain minerals and chemicals that are in the saliva accumulates in the gland or duct of the gland. Calcium is one component that is always present. However, keep in mind that the actual cause of developing a salivary stone is still unknown. When salivary stones do occur, some symptoms will manifest themselves. Symptoms such as less saliva production or thicker saliva can occur. Some triggers have been identified that can contribute to the development of salivary stones such as dehydration and poor eat habits. We also know that some medications can also contribute to salivary stones. Medications used for blood pressure, psychiatric, or bladder control are among some of those medications. Trauma to the duct or gland can also increase the risk for salivary stones to develop. Unfortunately symptoms usually don’t occur while the stones are developing. They only occur after the problem is there. Besides having less saliva or thick saliva, pain and swelling often accompanies salivary stones. Once a salivary stone develops, infection will occur inside the gland.
Once symptoms of a salivary stones occur, you will want to go see the doctor. The doctor will usually first check your gland via a physical exam and if they believe there is a problem, they will then order an X-ray, CT scan, or Ultrasound. If a stone in the gland is found, they may attempt to treat the problem naturally first. They will have their patient suck on sour candy or lemons to try to stimulate saliva flow and hopefully pass the stone out naturally. If the stones are small enough, the doctor may even try to massage the stone out of the gland or duct.
If the stones are too large to remove on their own, the doctor may make a small incision in the mouth and remove the stone out through the opening. Another technique some doctors may use is called sialendoscopy where we use a small scoop instrument that will enter the gland and scoop out the stones. The sialendoscopy procedure doesn’t require the patient to use anesthesia, so they can go home after the procedure is finished. Afterward, we will prescribe antibiotics to treat or prevent infection. Saliva stones can be uncomfortable or even painful to some degree. For those who may have or suspect salivary stones, come down and see ENT Specialists. We will help diagnose and treat the problem. Contact ENT Specialists and schedule an appointment today!
