The Salivary Glands produce saliva which moistens food to facilitate chewing and swallowing. Saliva contains enzymes which initiate the digestion process by breaking down food before it reaches the stomach. In addition, saliva cleanses the mouth by washing away bacteria and food particles, and thus, helps prevent tooth decay.
The Salivary Glands empty saliva into the mouth, through ducts that open at various locations in the mouth. There are three pairs of major (large) Salivary Glands. In addition, there are many tiny glands called minor Salivary Glands located in the lips, inner cheek area (buccal mucosa), and extensively in other linings of the mouth and throat.
The Major Salivary Glands Are:
- Parotid Glands -The two Parotid Glands are located in front of the ears, in the cheeks. These are the largest Salivary Glands.
- Submandibular Glands -The two Submandibular Glands are located under the jaw, in the upper neck.
- Sublingual Glands -The two Sublingual Glands are the smallest major Salivary Glands and are located under the tongue, in the front of the mouth.
Salivary Gland Stones
Salivary gland stones, also called sialoliths, form when calcium deposits build up within a gland or its duct. They most often develop in the submandibular glands, though the parotid glands can be affected as well. A stone can block the flow of saliva, causing pain and swelling that often worsens around mealtimes. Treatment may range from hydration and gentle massage to minimally invasive in-office procedures.
Parotid Gland Disorders
The parotid glands are the largest of the major salivary glands, located just in front of each ear. They can be affected by infection, stones, cysts, and both benign and cancerous tumors. Because of their location near the facial nerve, parotid gland concerns should be evaluated by an experienced ENT surgeon. Dr. Zadeh’s parotid and salivary gland services page outlines the full range of parotid conditions he treats in Los Angeles.
Swollen Salivary Glands
Swelling in a salivary gland can appear suddenly or develop gradually, and it can affect one gland or several at once. Common causes include infection, a blocked duct from a stone, dehydration, or, in some cases, an underlying autoimmune disorder, such as Sjögren’s syndrome. Swelling that is painful, persistent, or paired with fever warrants a prompt evaluation. Dr. Zadeh’s guide to salivary gland disorders covers the most common causes of swelling in more depth.
When to See an ENT
Most minor salivary gland irritation improves with hydration and rest, but certain signs call for a specialist. See an ENT if swelling lasts more than a few days, is accompanied by fever or pus, keeps recurring, or is limited to one side of the face. Dr. Zadeh provides comprehensive ENT services in Century City, Los Angeles, including evaluation and treatment for salivary gland conditions.
FAQs
Swollen salivary glands are most often caused by an infection, a blocked duct from a salivary stone, or dehydration. Less commonly, an autoimmune condition or a tumor can cause swelling. A physical exam and, if needed, imaging can help identify the cause.
A salivary gland stone, or sialolith, is a hardened deposit of calcium that forms inside a salivary gland or its duct. Stones can block the flow of saliva and cause pain and swelling, especially while eating. Many small stones pass on their own with hydration and gentle massage, though larger stones may need to be removed.
Bacterial salivary gland infections are typically treated with antibiotics, warm compresses, and measures that increase saliva flow, including sialogogues (e.g., sour candy or citrus) and adequate hydration. If an abscess forms, drainage may be needed. Recurrent infections can scar the gland’s ducts and should be evaluated by an ENT.
See an ENT if swelling lasts more than a few days, keeps coming back, is accompanied by fever, or is limited to one side of your face. Dr. Zadeh evaluates and treats salivary gland conditions at his Century City, Los Angeles practice.