Salivary duct stones

• Illustrations
• Alternative names
• Definition
• Causes, incidence, and risk factors
• Symptoms

• Signs and tests
• Treatment
• Expectations (prognosis)
• Complications
• Calling your health care provider

Alternative names    Return to top

Definition    Return to top

Salivary duct stones are crystallized minerals in the ducts that drain the salivary glands. Salivary duct stones are one of the salivary gland disorders.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors    Return to top

During eating, saliva (spit) is produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. The chemicals in saliva can crystallize into a stone that can block the salivary ducts. When saliva cannot exit a blocked duct, it backs up into the gland, causing pain and swelling of the gland. The submandibular glands, at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw, are most often affected by stones.

Symptoms    Return to top

• Swelling of the face or neck
• Pain in the face or mouth
• Dry mouth

Signs and tests    Return to top

An examination of the head and neck by the health care provider or dentist shows one or more enlarged, tender salivary glands. The doctor may be able to feel the stone during examination.

Facial X-rays or a CT scan can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment    Return to top

The goal is to remove the stone. The health care provider or dentist may be able to push the stone out of the duct. In some cases, the stone may need to be surgically cut out.

Expectations (prognosis)    Return to top

Salivary duct stones are uncomfortable, but not dangerous. The stone is usually removed with only minimal discomfort.

If the patient has repeated stones or infections, the affected salivary gland may need to be surgically removed.

Complications    Return to top

• Increased risk of salivary gland infections
• Recurrence of stones
• Discomfort

Calling your health care provider    Return to top

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate that salivary duct stones may be present.