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Conditions

Oral and maxillofacial surgery · Face, mouth and jaws

Salivary gland stones and obstruction

Recognise salivary blockage, typically painful around meals, and its complications.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

A salivary stone is a mineral deposit formed within a gland or its duct that can slow or block saliva flow.

Possible symptoms

Pain and swelling under the tongue or jaw or in front of the ear, often worse with meals, dry mouth, bad taste or infection can occur.

Causes and associated factors

Saliva composition and stagnation favour stones; dehydration, some medicines or duct narrowing may contribute, often without one clear cause.

Diagnosis

The clinician examines and feels the gland and duct, looking for reduced flow, a visible stone and signs of infection.

Tests

Ultrasound, X-ray, CT, specialised MRI or sialendoscopy is selected according to gland, depth and treatment planning.

Course of the condition

A small stone may pass; persistent blockage causes recurrent attacks and sometimes infection of the gland.

Care options

Hydration, gentle massage, saliva stimulation and pain relief may help; sialendoscopy, lithotripsy or surgery can remove persistent stones. Do not use sharp objects.

When to consult

Seek care if attacks recur, swelling does not settle, the mouth is very dry, or fever or pus develops.

Urgent help

Rapid swelling of the mouth floor or neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, high fever or marked illness requires urgent help.

Questions for your doctor

  • What exact diagnosis and extent have been established?
  • Which functions—breathing, vision, chewing, speech or swallowing—are affected?
  • Which non-surgical and surgical options should we compare?
  • Which nerve, dental, functional and appearance risks should I consider?
  • What multidisciplinary follow-up will be needed?

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A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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