What Are Salivary Glands?
Salivary glands produce saliva, a vital fluid that helps with digestion, keeps the mouth moist, and protects teeth from decay. These glands are made up of specialized tissues that secrete enzymes and other substances essential for breaking down food. By maintaining oral health and aiding in swallowing, salivary glands play a key role in the body’s digestive and protective processes.
Minor and Major Salivary Glands
The salivary system consists of minor salivary glands and three major salivary glands, each with specific roles in saliva production. The major glands include the parotid glands, sublingual glands, and submandibular glands, which are responsible for the bulk of saliva in the mouth. In contrast, minor salivary glands are smaller and more numerous, scattered throughout the oral cavity, and contribute to maintaining a consistently moist mouth. Together, minor and major glands ensure proper digestion, oral lubrication, and protection against infection.
Common Salivary Gland Disorders
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is most commonly a side effect of medication or a prior medical procedure (like radioactive iodine ablation for thyroid cancer or radiation to the head and neck for cancer). There is no wonder drug to help with dry mouth. Good hydration, Biotene products, and consistent dental care are the primary recommendations we offer. In some cases, performing a procedure to dilate the salivary ducts can be beneficial. However, it will not increase saliva production and is only effective if something is obstructing one of your salivary ducts.
Salivary Gland Stones
What can be stuck in a salivary duct? Stones. One component of saliva is calcium, and if enough of the calcium gets close enough together, it can form a stone. If you have had salivary stones, you may have experienced a gritty sensation, similar to sand, in your mouth. Stones can sometimes be removed from inside the mouth, but in some cases, they become so large that the entire gland must be removed. Removing one salivary gland will not affect your overall saliva production.
Lumps (Noncancerous Tumors)
Lumps can also be present in salivary glands. These are typically benign masses that cannot spread to other areas, but they do grow over time. Most of the time, we recommend either an ultrasound or a CT scan to examine the mass more closely, as well as a small biopsy of the area. It is crucial to see one of our providers or another ENT specialist as soon as possible if you notice a lump in one of your salivary glands.
Salivary Gland Cancer
Most salivary gland tumors are benign pleomorphic adenomas, but in some cases, malignant tumors can develop and require prompt medical attention. Among the cancerous tumors that can arise, adenoid cystic carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most notable due to their potential to invade nearby tissues and spread. Early detection through imaging and biopsy is critical, as treatment strategies vary depending on the type and aggressiveness of the malignancy.
Salivary Gland Infections
Some people have problems with infections in their salivary glands. This is very painful and gets worse with eating. Taking antibiotics after antibiotics is not good, as this is how antibiotic resistance develops. I frequently recommend the removal of the constantly infected gland to prevent future problems (like the development of an abscess) and frequent antibiotic use.
Salivary Gland Swelling
Salivary gland swelling can occur when an affected gland becomes inflamed, blocked, or develops a growth. Swelling may indicate the presence of salivary tumors, infections, or duct obstructions, and can cause pain, tenderness, or changes in saliva flow. Identifying the cause of swelling is essential for proper treatment, whether it involves medication, procedures to clear blockages, or surgical removal of abnormal tissue.
Risk Factors for Salivary Gland Diseases
Older Age
As people age, the salivary gland tissue naturally undergoes changes that can increase its susceptibility to dysfunction and disease. These age-related changes can reduce the efficiency of saliva production, increasing the risk of dryness, infection, and other salivary gland problems. Maintaining oral hygiene and undergoing regular check-ups becomes increasingly crucial for older adults to monitor potential oral health issues.
Dehydration and Malnutrition
Dehydration and malnutrition can significantly reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth and an increased risk of infection or dental problems. Adequate hydration and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining healthy salivary glands and proper oral function.
Diabetes
Diabetes can disrupt the body’s normal fluid balance and immune response, making the salivary glands more susceptible to inflammation, infection, and reduced saliva production. People with diabetes are at higher risk for dry mouth, gum disease, and other complications affecting oral health.
Sjögren's Syndrome
Sjögren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that primarily targets moisture-producing glands, including the salivary glands. This condition can severely reduce saliva production, leading to chronic dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, and an increased susceptibility to dental decay and infections.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS)
HIV/AIDS can compromise immune function and affect salivary glands, leading to swelling, reduced saliva production, or infections. Individuals with HIV/AIDS may experience chronic oral health issues that require careful monitoring and management.
Bulimia Nervosa and Other Eating Disorders
Bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders can impact saliva flow, often causing swelling of the salivary glands due to repeated vomiting or nutritional deficiencies. Disrupted saliva flow can increase the risk of oral infections, tooth enamel erosion, and chronic mouth discomfort.
Kidney Failure
Kidney failure can disrupt the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance, affecting the salivary glands and leading to reduced saliva production. This can contribute to dry mouth, changes in taste, and an increased risk of infections or oral cavity inflammation.
Medications
Certain medications, such as antihistamines, diuretics, and antidepressants, can cause enlarged salivary glands or a decreased flow of saliva, leading to dry mouth and other oral health issues. Patients taking multiple medications or long-term prescriptions should monitor for changes in saliva production and consult their healthcare provider if symptoms arise.
Bacterial and Viral Infections
Bacterial infections and viral infections can cause swelling, pain, and reduced salivary flow in the affected glands. A severe infection can lead to abscess formation or systemic complications, making prompt diagnosis and treatment essential.
Smoking
Smoking can impair salivary gland function, reduce saliva production, and increase the risk of infections, inflammation, and oral cancers. Long-term tobacco use contributes to chronic oral health problems and complicates the management of salivary gland disorders.
Radiation Exposure
Radiation exposure to the head and neck, whether therapeutic or environmental, increases the risk of developing benign and malignant tumors in the salivary glands. Even after treatment, radiation can permanently affect saliva production, leading to chronic dry mouth and heightened vulnerability to oral disease.
Receive Excellent Treatment for Salivary Gland Problems at Texas Sinus & Snoring
Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of salivary gland issues, including blocked salivary glands, benign tumors, viral infections, and painful lumps. With a thorough physical examination, we can identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan that may include head and neck surgery when necessary. Our goal is to restore proper saliva flow, keep your mouth moist, and ensure your comfort throughout the process.
If you have any concerns about a problem with your salivary glands, we would be happy to help at Texas Sinus & Snoring!
Conclusion
Salivary gland problems can range from minor discomfort to severe conditions that require careful monitoring and treatment. Regular checkups, including blood tests and evaluation of lymph nodes, can help detect issues early, especially when cancer cells or other abnormalities are a concern. Maintaining good oral hygiene and ensuring saliva drains properly are essential for preventing painful infections and complications. Symptoms such as facial swelling or painful lumps should never be ignored, as they may indicate the need for surgical removal or treatment related to chronic illness. Prompt attention and professional care can protect your oral health and overall well-being.
Ready to Breathe Freely Again?
By Dr. Ben Cilento, ENT
October 12, 2025
