“What are the treatment options for salivary gland stones?”

This depends on the location of the stones and whether or not you are symptomatic (ie swelling etc). IF the stones are close to the entrance of the ducts, they may be able to be removed with a procedure called lithotripsy (think of a tiny jackhammer) that can break up the large stones so that they can pass. IF the stones (which are causing swelling) are right next to the gland, especially the submandibular gland, then the treatment is usually removal of that gland in the OR. Wharton's is the duct from the submandibular gland which is located just medial to the angle of the mandible and the duct exits just under the tongue in the anterior floor of the mouth. Stenson's is the duct from the parotid gland which is located anterior and deep to the tragus of the ear at its superior border and runs down almost to the angle of the mandible. SO, if your swelling is on the* side* of your face, that stone/obstruction is likely in the parotid duct. IF your swelling is *under your jaw* and medial, then the stone is likely in your submandibular duct. IF YOU ARE ASYMPTOMATIC, and the stones are simply a finding on a CBCT or CT scan, then you may not require treatment. If, however, you have had swelling, I would recommend going to see an OMS or an ENT surgeon. Hope this helps, Dr Bronk

. That depends on the size of the stone. If the stone is small it may pass without any treatment. Sometimes even a fairly large stone will pass on its own providing the stone is in the duct If the stone is large and it is in the duct probing or opening the ducts surgically may be necessary. If the stone is in the gland and is symptomatic then one would consider surgically removing the gland