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Saliva is important for moistening and digesting food, and protects the oral tissues and teeth.
Three main pairs of salivary glands produce saliva (major glands) :
- Parotid Glands - located in front and below your ear
- Submandibular Glands - located under the jaw line
- Sublingual Glands - located under the tongue
There are also a large number of minor salivary glands in the mouth including the lips and roof of the mouth.
The most common disorders of salivary glands involve :
Stones and Infection
- Causes reduced salivary flow, pain and swelling
- Treatment can range from rehydration and antibiotics, to minimally invasive endoscopic surgery or removal of the affected gland
Mucous cysts / Mucoceles
- Often found in the lower lip following minor trauma to the area (e.g. biting the lip or a fall)
- These lesions are often removed with minor surgery to remove the cyst and underlying affected minor salivary glands
Abnormal growths / Tumours
- Can present as a lump in the neck or mouth
- Investigation of these lumps involves imaging (e.g. ultrasound and MRI scans), and needle biopsies to obtain a diagnosis
- Surgery is often preformed by a surgeon with specialist training. Treatment is performed under magnification to protect critical nerves that move and give sensation to the face, neck mouth, and tongue
If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Singh to discuss any aspect of salivary gland surgery then please contact us here.