Salivary Gland Treatment
in Austin, TX
From salivary stones and gland infections to lumps and masses, Capital ENT's board-certified otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons diagnose and treat the full range of salivary gland disorders, medically and surgically, for patients across Central Texas.
Trusted Salivary Gland Specialists in Austin
What kind of doctor treats salivary gland problems?
An ENT (otolaryngologist), also called a head and neck surgeon, is the specialist who diagnoses and treats salivary gland disorders. The major salivary glands include the parotid glands in front of and below the ears and the submandibular glands beneath the jaw. When these glands form stones, become infected, or develop a lump, our board-certified ENTs manage the problem from first evaluation through medical treatment or surgery, all under one roof.
You have hundreds of salivary glands that keep your mouth moist and help you chew, swallow, and digest food. Problems usually arise in the larger glands when a duct becomes blocked, an infection sets in, or an abnormal growth develops. Most salivary gland conditions are very treatable, and our physicians tailor care to the specific gland and cause involved. For a plain-language overview of these conditions, the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery and MedlinePlus (NIH) are reliable patient resources.
Common Salivary Gland Conditions
Our team evaluates and treats the full range of salivary gland problems, from simple blockages to masses that need surgical removal.
Salivary Stones (Sialolithiasis)
Calcified deposits can form in a salivary duct and block the flow of saliva, most often in the submandibular gland under the jaw. The hallmark is painful gland swelling that flares at mealtimes. Stones that will not pass on their own can be removed.
Salivary Gland Infections (Sialadenitis)
When saliva flow slows, bacteria can infect a gland, causing painful swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pus or a bad taste in the mouth. Infections are common alongside stones or dehydration and usually respond to antibiotics and supportive care.
Salivary Gland Masses & Tumors
A lump in or near a salivary gland needs evaluation. Most parotid gland tumors are benign, but some are cancerous, so we use a careful exam, imaging, and a needle biopsy when appropriate to find out what a mass is and guide the right next step in care.
Blocked Ducts & Dry Mouth
Narrowed ducts, scarring, or reduced saliva flow, including from conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, can cause recurrent swelling and persistent dry mouth. We identify the underlying cause and recommend treatment to restore comfort and gland function.
Symptoms That Warrant an Evaluation
Salivary gland symptoms often come and go, which leads many people to wait. Because an untreated blockage can lead to repeated infections, and because a lump should never be ignored, it is worth being seen if you notice any of the following:
- Painful swelling near the jaw or in front of the ear, especially around meals
- A lump you can feel in the cheek, under the jaw, or in the floor of the mouth
- Repeated gland infections or swelling that keeps returning
- Pus, grit, or a foul taste draining into the mouth
- Persistent dry mouth, sometimes with dry eyes
- Facial weakness on the same side as a salivary gland lump
Facial weakness with a parotid mass is a symptom that should be evaluated promptly. ENT Urgent Care and same-day visits are often available.
How We Diagnose and Treat Salivary Gland Disorders
Comprehensive Evaluation
We start with a focused history and examination of the glands and ducts. When more detail is needed, imaging and, for any mass, a needle biopsy help us pinpoint the cause and plan treatment.
Medical Management
Many stones and infections improve with conservative care: hydration, warm compresses, gentle gland massage, and tart lozenges to stimulate saliva flow. Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics, and we address any underlying contributor.
Salivary Stone Removal
When a stone will not pass on its own, it can be removed to relieve the blockage and prevent further infections. Our surgeons select the approach based on the size and location of the stone.
Submandibular Gland Surgery
For a gland that is chronically infected, repeatedly obstructed, or contains a mass, removal of the submandibular gland is a well-established, effective operation performed by our head and neck surgeons.
Parotid Gland Surgery (Parotidectomy)
Masses and persistent problems in the parotid gland are treated by removing part or all of the gland (parotidectomy). The facial nerve runs through the parotid gland, which is why this surgery should be performed by an ENT and head and neck surgeon.
Experienced Head & Neck Care, Close to Home
Salivary gland disorders sit squarely within the expertise of an ENT and head and neck surgeon. Our team brings that training to four convenient Central Texas locations.
- Board-certified otolaryngologists and head and neck surgeons
- Both medical and surgical treatment, coordinated by one team
- Same-day and next-day appointments often available
- Four locations across Austin, Lakeway, Marble Falls, and Dripping Springs
Salivary Gland FAQ
Concerned About a Salivary Gland Problem?
Our board-certified ENT and head and neck surgeons can evaluate salivary swelling, stones, infections, and lumps. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available at our four Central Texas locations.