Salivary Gland Center

There’s a wide range of salivary gland disorders, some of which are rare. That’s why an accurate diagnosis from specialists who routinely evaluate and treat all types of salivary gland diseases is so important.

Our otorhinolaryngologists, radiologists, oncologists, and head and neck surgeons diagnose and treat hundreds of people each year, many with uncommon and complex disorders. They have the experience and knowledge to select the right treatments for your needs.

Understanding salivary gland disorders

Salivary glands are organs inside and near your mouth that produce saliva. Saliva moistens food to help you chew, swallow, and digest it. Saliva also keeps your mouth clean by destroying germs and protecting your teeth from decay.

You have three major pairs of salivary glands: parotid (on the side of the face), submandibular (below the jaw), and sublingual (below the tongue). You also have hundreds of minor glands in your cheeks, mouth, tongue, lips, nose, sinuses, and voice box.

Damaged or blocked salivary glands can’t produce saliva and may lead to:

• A bad taste in your mouth
• Dental problems such as tooth loss or cavities
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Dry mouth
• Infections
• Lumps under your tongue or near your jaw
• Pain and swelling in your mouth, neck, or face
• Problems opening your mouth

Most salivary gland disorders are inflammatory diseases, which cause your glands to swell. They can result from tumors or salivary gland stones (hardened mineral deposits in your glands). Infections, certain medications, cancer treatment, and autoimmune diseases can also cause salivary gland inflammation.

At Penn Medicine, we specialize in inflammatory salivary gland conditions caused by immune system diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome. We have the region’s only Sjögren’s Disease Center, giving you access to a team of rheumatologists, ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists, ophthalmologists, and other experts. We focus on improving your salivary gland function and helping you manage the many other symptoms of Sjögren’s syndrome for a better quality of life.

Advanced diagnosis and treatment for salivary gland cancer

Salivary cancer is rare. About 80 percent of salivary gland tumors are benign (non-cancerous) growths in the parotid glands. However, these tumors can change over time and turn cancerous, so it’s essential to get a prompt, accurate diagnosis.

At Penn Medicine, we are national leaders in a minimally invasive procedure called sialendoscopy. This diagnostic technique, specifically designed for salivary glands, identifies small salivary gland tumors that might otherwise go unnoticed and continue progressing. If we do find a tumor, we can often remove it during the same procedure. Sialendoscopy doesn’t require large incisions, so it has fewer side effects than traditional surgery.

Salivary gland specialists work with pathologists, radiologists, and oncologists to confirm a diagnosis and plan the most effective treatment. If we do find cancer, you’ll receive seamlessly coordinated care from a team of head and neck cancer experts at Penn Medicine’s comprehensive cancer system.

When you turn to our Salivary Gland Center for care, you’ll find a high-volume program that delivers exceptional outcomes. We diagnose and treat hundreds of people each year, many coming from across the country for our expertise in salivary gland disorders. We’re known for our ability to treat complex or advanced cases using minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques.