Causes

The salivary glands produce saliva (spit), which moistens food to aid chewing and swallowing. Saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestion process. Saliva also cleans the mouth by washing away bacteria and food particles. Saliva keeps the mouth moist and helps keep dentures or orthodontic appliances (such as retainers) in place.

There are three pairs of salivary glands:

• The two largest are the parotid glands, one in each cheek in front of the ears
• Two glands are under the floor of the mouth (sublingual glands)
• Two glands are at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw (submandibular glands)

All of the salivary glands empty saliva into the mouth through ducts that open at various locations in the mouth.

The salivary glands may become inflamed (irritated) because of infection, tumors, or stones.

Related topics:

• Salivary duct stones
• Salivary duct tumors
• Salivary gland infections

Symptoms

• Abnormal tastes, foul tastes
• Decreased ability to open the mouth
• Discomfort when opening the mouth
• Dry mouth
• Pain in the face or mouth pain
• Swelling in front of the ears
• Swelling of the face or neck

Exams and Tests

Tests vary depending on the condition thought to be causing the problem.

• Images of the glands can be seen using ultrasound, MRI scan, and CT scans of the glands.
• The ducts of the mouth can be investigated using an x-ray called a sialogram.
• A salivary gland biopsy can be used to diagnose problems with the salivary glands.

Treatment

Drinking a lot of water, using sugar-free lemon drops to increase the flow of saliva, and massaging the gland with heat may help with infections and stones.

Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections.

Stones may be removed using endoscopes, lithotripsy, or surgery.

Other treatments depend on the specific disorder.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most salivary gland disorders respond well to treatment.

Possible Complications

Complications depend on the specific disorder.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

ALWAYS call your health care provider if you have symptoms of a salivary gland disorder.

Prevention

Most of the problems with salivary glands cannot be prevented. Drinking enough fluids, using things that increase salivation (for example, sour candy), and massaging the gland can increase the flow of saliva and help prevent infection.

References

Elluru RG. Physiology of the salivary glands. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 84.

Lacey J. Diagnostic imaging and fine-needle aspiration of the salivary glands. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 85.

Rogers J, McCaffrey TV. Inflammatory disorders of the salivary glands. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 86.

Update Date: 3/5/2012

Reviewed by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Seth Schwartz, MD, MPH, Otolaryngologist, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.