Salivary glands make saliva, or spit. A salivary gland stone is a piece of hard material, usually calcium, that can form in any of the three main salivary glands in the mouth. Salivary gland stones are also called salivary duct stones. Stones form most often in the gland that releases saliva below the tongue.
A stone can block saliva from flowing out of the gland. When saliva backs up behind the stone, it can make the gland swell. The gland swells while you are eating, and then the swelling goes down slowly afterward. The swelling and pain may be under the jaw or in the area in front of the ear, depending on which gland is affected.
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms. Your doctor may be able to see and feel the gland under your skin or in the floor of your mouth. You may get an imaging test, such as a CT scan or ultrasound. This will help your doctor know if you have a stone and not some other problem.
Most stones come out into the mouth on their own. While the stone is in the gland, your doctor may have you take medicine for pain. There are also some things you can do at home to help move the stone. If the stone in your gland hasn't come out within a few weeks, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
Use sugar-free gum or candies such as lemon drops, or suck on a lemon wedge. They increase saliva, which may help push the stone out.
Gently massage the affected gland to help move the stone.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
You have symptoms of infection, such as:
Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
Red streaks leading from the salivary gland.
Pus draining from the area where the saliva comes out into the mouth.
A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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