Q: Are salivary glands subject to disorders?
A: Salivary glands, which produce the saliva that's necessary for eating and for a healthy mouth, are subject, like the rest of the body, to disease. Tumors and cysts can develop, just as they can on any soft tissue in the mouth. Any tumor should be biopsied to determine if it is benign or cancerous. Additionally, saliva glands can be affected by stones, which are tiny but hard accumulations of mineral, like calcium. A stone can block a salivary gland duct and block the flow of saliva. When the saliva backs up, it can cause swelling and discomfort.
Stones can be removed surgically. Should the problem be chronic, the oral surgeon can make an opening in the gland so that saliva bypasses the duct and goes directly into the mouth. In rare instances, the surgeon may remove the gland entirely. The main treatment for any sort of mouth infection, the salivary glands included, is antibiotic treatment. Minor surgery may be required if the infection has resulted in an accumulation of pus. If you feel or see anything unusual in or around your mouth, talk with your dentist as soon as possible.
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