Salivary Gland Masses
What is a salivary gland disorder?
Your salivary glands generate saliva, which maintains moisture in your mouth, safeguards your teeth against quick decay, and aids in food digestion. These glands are small located near the face, neck, and within the inner linings of your mouth, lips, and cheeks. Salivary gland disorders occur when one or more of these glands are obstructed, hindering their ability to produce or release saliva. This condition can be quite painful.
While most salivary gland masses are benign, they can sometimes be cancerous, making it important to be evaluated by one of our ENT doctors.
What are the symptoms and treatment options?
The cause of salivary gland disorders are unknown. Certain factors can increase your risk, including dehydration, older age, exposure to radiation treatments, and contact with toxic substances. Symptoms are difficulty swallowing, facial muscle weakness, pain in the area of the salivary glands, facial numbness, lump or swelling in the jaw, neck, or mouth.
Several diseases can impact your salivary glands, including cancerous tumors and Sjögren’s syndrome. While some of these conditions may resolve with time or antibiotic treatment, others might need surgery.
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Clear Lake Medical Center ENT can diagnose the issue and offer a detailed treatment plan. To support good oral health, it's essential to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids daily, which encourages healthy saliva production.