Dental Encyclopedia · Oral Surgery
Sialolithiasis (Salivary Stones)
Sialolithiasis
Sialolithiasis is a condition in which a stone (sialolith) forms inside a salivary gland or its duct and blocks the flow of saliva. It is known to be characterized by swelling and pain in the salivary gland area at mealtimes.
In plain terms
Put simply, a “stone” forms in the passage through which saliva flows and blocks it. When you eat, saliva builds up and the salivary gland (under the jaw or in front of the ear) swells and becomes painful.
Sialoliths tend to form mainly in the submandibular gland, and when the salivary duct is blocked, it is known that saliva production increases at mealtimes, bringing repeated swelling and pain. Left as it is, it can lead to inflammation of the salivary gland (sialadenitis).
Ultrasound and CT are used in diagnosis, and depending on the position and the size, removal through the salivary duct, salivary gland endoscopy or irrigation may be considered. Dr. Beauty Dental Hospital states that it offers salivary gland care including sialography, irrigation and ultrasound.
Frequently asked questions
- Q. The area under my jaw swells and hurts when I eat — is that sialolithiasis?
- Swelling and pain in the salivary gland area at mealtimes is known as a common sign of sialolithiasis, which appears when the salivary duct is blocked. However, it needs to be distinguished from other salivary gland conditions, so confirming it with examinations such as ultrasound or CT is recommended. An accurate diagnosis is explained after a visit.
This entry is for general information. Diagnosis and treatment depend on individual conditions.