Sialolithiasis, or stone formation in the salivary glands, is the most common condition affecting the glands. The cause is unknown, but chronic dehydration and bacterial invasion may contribute. Diagnosis is usually made through examination, and treatment involves removing the stones through surgery or sound wave bombardment.
Sialolithiasis is a term used to describe stone formation in the salivary glands. These stones are called sialoliths. They are most often found in the submandibular gland, which sits on the floor of the mouth. Of all the conditions and diseases that can affect the salivary glands, it is the most common.
Saliva stones are not cancerous, but they can be uncomfortable and painful. The causes of sialolithiasis aren’t exactly known, although some medical professionals believe that chronic dehydration can promote the growth of stones in the salivary glands. It is also believed that a bacterial invasion can lead to stone formation in the salivary glands. Many times there are no conditions or symptoms that precede their appearance.
The diagnosis of sialolithiasis is usually made through a simple examination. When visible, the small white stones are usually easy for a doctor to spot. When the stones aren’t visible, a doctor can conduct a series of tests to confirm a diagnosis of saliva stones. X-rays, ultrasounds, and CT scans can be used to detect stones that may be too deep to detect visually. A special dye can also be injected into the salivary duct, which can help locate stones and other abnormalities in the gland.
The most common symptom of sialolithiasis is swelling and pain in the gland. The discomfort usually increases when the person eats, as this is when the glands try to produce saliva to aid in the chewing and digestion process. Affected glands may also appear red and tender to the touch. In most cases these stones are more of a nuisance than anything else, but if left untreated the condition can sometimes contribute to chronic bacterial infections of the mouth. Oral bacterial infections can be very serious.
Treatment for sialolithiasis usually involves removing stones from the mouth. Removal methods may vary depending on the size and location of the stone. Minor surgery is one of the most common methods. Sometimes this procedure involves directly cutting the stone so that it breaks or operating on the gland that has the stone. This causes it to open it and let the stone through. If the stone was exceptionally large or caused severe damage to the affected duct, complete removal of the duct may be the only surgical option. In some cases the bombardment of the stone with sound waves allows it to pass without the need for any surgery.
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