Salivary Gland Surgery & Non-Surgical Treatment in Maryland
Salivary Gland Treatment at Will Surgical Arts
Your salivary glands do a lot of quiet, important work every day. They produce the saliva that keeps your mouth moist, helps you chew and swallow, and protects your teeth. Most of the time, you don't think about them at all. But when something goes wrong, like an infection or an underlying condition affecting the glands, it can cause real discomfort and needs proper care.
Salivary gland disease is a broad term that covers several different conditions. Sometimes a gland becomes infected and needs treatment to clear the infection. In other cases, an autoimmune condition affects the glands and requires careful diagnosis and ongoing management. And in some situations, a gland needs to be surgically removed. The right approach depends entirely on what's causing the problem.
At Will Surgical Arts in Ijamsville, MD, Dr. Michael Will and Dr. Brian Will can evaluate salivary gland conditions and provide both surgical and medical management depending on what your situation calls for. Our practice serves patients from throughout the Frederick area and the greater Washington, DC metro region.
If you're dealing with jaw or neck swelling, pain near your ear or under your chin,in your cheek or under your tongue, or other symptoms you think might be related to your salivary glands, request a consultation at Will Surgical Arts today.
Surgery, Medical Management, or Both; We'll Find the Right Path
Understanding Salivary Gland Disease & How It's Treated
You have three pairs of major salivary glands. The parotid glands sit just in front of and below each ear. The submandibular glands are located under the jaw on each side. The sublingual glands sit on the floor of the mouth under the tongue. All three sets of glands produce saliva that flows through small tubes, called ducts, into the mouth. When something disrupts that flow, or when the glands themselves become affected by infection or disease, symptoms can develop.
Salivary Gland Infections
One of the most common salivary gland problems is infection, which most often affects the parotid glands. Infections can happen when a duct becomes blocked, usually by a small calcium deposit called a salivary stone, which allows bacteria to build up in the gland. This can cause swelling, tenderness, pain when eating, and sometimes a bad taste in the mouth. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve antibiotics and other supportive care, or, in some cases, a procedure to address the blockage or the affected gland directly.
Autoimmune and Other Conditions
Some salivary gland conditions aren't caused by infection at all but by the immune system mistakenly attacking the glands. These conditions can cause chronic dryness, swelling, and discomfort. Proper diagnosis is the first step, and management is often ongoing rather than a one-time fix. Our surgeons can help identify what's going on and work with you on a management plan that fits your needs.
When Surgery Is Needed
In some cases, the best treatment for a salivary gland condition is surgical removal of the affected gland. This is most often considered when a gland has recurring infections, contains a growth or mass that needs to be evaluated or removed, or when other treatments haven't resolved the problem. Salivary gland surgery is a specialized procedure that requires careful technique, given the proximity of important nerves in the area. Our surgeons have the training and experience to perform these procedures safely and effectively.
Medical Management
Not every salivary gland condition requires surgery. Many can be effectively managed through medication, lifestyle adjustments, or other non-surgical approaches. Our team will thoroughly evaluate your condition and help you understand all of your options so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of salivary gland disease?
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and cause of the condition, but common signs include swelling or tenderness in the face(cheeks), jaw, or neck, especially near the ear, under the jaw, or under the chin or tongue. Pain that gets worse when you eat, a dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, or a bad taste in the mouth can also be signs that something is going on with one or more of your salivary glands. Some people notice a firm lump in one of these areas. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's worth getting an evaluation rather than waiting to see if they go away on their own.
How do doctors diagnose salivary gland problems?
Diagnosis usually starts with a thorough examination and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Imaging, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may be used to get a better look at the affected gland and its ducts. In some cases, additional testing may be needed to rule out an autoimmune condition or to evaluate a growth or mass. Our surgeons will walk you through whatever evaluation steps apply to your situation and make sure you understand what they're looking for and why before moving forward with any treatment.
Is salivary gland surgery serious?
Like any surgery, removing a salivary gland is a procedure that's taken seriously and approached carefully. The parotid glands in particular sit close to the facial nerve, which controls movement on that side of the face, so this type of surgery requires a skilled, experienced surgeon. Our team has the specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery needed to perform salivary gland procedures safely. That said, surgery is only recommended when it's truly the best option for your specific condition. For many patients, medical management is effective, and surgery isn't needed at all.
How do I book a consultation with a salivary gland specialist near me?
It's easy to get started. You can request an appointment online or give us a call at (301) 874-1707 , and our team will find a time that works for you. We look forward to helping you get the answers and care you need!