Sialadenitis

Sialadenitis is inflammation of a salivary gland, those structures that produce saliva in the mouth and the neck and face region. It can affect glands such as the parotid or the submandibular and present acutely or in a more prolonged manner.

Common symptoms: It usually presents with swelling and pain in the area of the affected gland, discomfort when eating, and, at times, redness or dry mouth.

Common causes: Among the factors are infections, obstruction by salivary stones, or a decrease in saliva flow.

Which specialist treats it? The otolaryngologist and the maxillofacial surgeon are the go-to professionals for evaluating the salivary glands; the dentist and the oral pathologist also take part depending on the source of the problem, and the general practitioner can provide the initial guidance. With persistent swelling in the face or neck, the wisest course is to seek a professional evaluation.