Salivary Gland Specialist in Pittsburgh
Advanced Salivary Gland Treatment And Care
Saliva is something most of us rarely think about, yet it plays a critical role in our daily lives. It keeps our mouths moist, aids in the digestion of food, and protects our teeth from decay. However, when the glands responsible for producing saliva become blocked, infected, or develop abnormal growths, the symptoms can be sudden and painful. Patients often experience swelling in the face or neck, pain while eating, or chronic dry mouth that affects their ability to speak and swallow comfortably. Salivary gland disease is a specific medical condition that requires expert evaluation to prevent complications like severe infection or permanent gland damage.
At Pittsburgh ENT and Allergy Partners, we offer specialized care for patients suffering from these often-overlooked conditions. As the largest and busiest private ENT practice in the city, formerly known as South Hills ENT, we have a deep understanding of the complex anatomy of the head and neck. Our team includes board-certified otolaryngologists who are experts in diagnosing the root cause of salivary dysfunction, whether it be a simple stone or a complex tumor. We utilize the latest diagnostic imaging and treatment techniques to provide relief and restore normal function. We are committed to guiding you through your treatment journey with compassion and medical excellence.
If you are experiencing persistent swelling or pain in your face or neck, do not ignore these warning signs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our experts help you find relief.
What is Salivary Gland Disease and How Does it Work?
Salivary gland disease refers to any condition that affects the glands responsible for producing saliva, or spit. There are three major pairs of salivary glands—the parotid (in front of the ears), the submandibular (under the jaw), and the sublingual (under the tongue)—along with hundreds of minor glands throughout the mouth. These glands can be affected by various issues, including obstruction by stones (sialolithiasis), bacterial or viral infections (sialadenitis), autoimmune disorders like Sjogren’s syndrome, or tumors. When these glands malfunction, the flow of saliva is disrupted, leading to pain and swelling that typically worsens during meals.
Our approach to salivary gland treatment works by first identifying the specific nature of the problem. Because different glands have different risks—for example, tumors are most common in the parotid gland, while stones are most common in the submandibular gland—accurate diagnosis is key. We conduct thorough physical exams and may utilize ultrasound or CT imaging to visualize the glands. Once we understand the mechanics of your specific blockage or disease, we develop a management plan that aims to restore flow, eliminate infection, or safely remove abnormal tissue while preserving the surrounding nerves and structures.
How Do We Approach Medical and Surgical Management of Salivary Gland Disease?
The management of salivary gland disease is a spectrum that ranges from conservative medical therapies to advanced surgical interventions. Our philosophy is to begin with the least invasive options whenever possible. For many patients, symptoms are caused by salivary stones or chronic inflammation. In these cases, we focus on stimulating saliva flow and managing inflammation to clear the ductal system naturally. We tailor our medical management plans to the severity of your symptoms and your overall health history.
However, when medical management is insufficient—such as in cases of large, immovable stones, recurrent infections that damage the gland tissue, or the presence of a tumor—surgical intervention becomes necessary. Our surgeons are skilled in the precise techniques required for the removal of affected glands. Whether it is a parotidectomy (removal of the parotid gland) or excision of the submandibular gland, we prioritize safety and functional recovery. We meticulously plan every procedure to address the specific pathology while minimizing recovery time and scarring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Involved in Salivary Gland Infection Treatment?
Salivary gland infections, or sialadenitis, are painful conditions often caused by a bacterial invasion due to reduced saliva flow or blockage. Patients often present with a tender, swollen lump in the cheek or under the chin, fever, and sometimes a foul-tasting discharge in the mouth. Effective salivary gland infection treatment requires prompt medical attention to prevent the infection from spreading to deep neck spaces.
Our primary treatment strategy involves aggressive hydration and the use of sialogogues (agents like sour candies that stimulate saliva production) to flush out the bacteria. We also prescribe targeted antibiotics to fight the infection and warm compresses to reduce pain and swelling. In cases where an abscess has formed, we may need to drain the infection surgically. By addressing the acute infection quickly, we can often preserve the gland's function and prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
When is Salivary Gland Surgery Recommended?
Salivary gland surgery is typically recommended when there is a physical obstruction that cannot be cleared medically or when a mass is present. If you have a tumor in a salivary gland, surgery is almost always the primary treatment. While the majority of salivary tumors are benign (non-cancerous), they continue to grow and can become unsightly or compress nearby nerves. Malignant tumors require immediate removal to prevent cancer spread.
The complexity of this surgery lies in the anatomy; the facial nerve, which controls your facial expressions, runs directly through the parotid gland. This is why finding an expert is crucial. Our surgeons utilize nerve monitoring technology during surgery to identify and protect this vital nerve. Whether removing a stone, a benign lump, or a malignancy, our goal is to completely remove the disease while maintaining your facial movement and cosmetic appearance.
Why Should I Search for a Salivary Gland Specialist Near Me?
Salivary gland disorders are relatively rare compared to other ENT conditions, which means general practitioners or dentists may not see them frequently. Searching for a salivary gland specialist near you ensures you are consulting with a physician who has specific training in the pathology and surgery of these glands. The intricate anatomy of the face and neck requires a surgeon with high-volume experience to minimize risks, particularly regarding the facial nerve.
At Pittsburgh ENT and Allergy Partners (formerly South Hills ENT), our specialists diagnose and treat these conditions regularly. We differentiate between autoimmune causes, obstructive stones, and neoplastic growths, ensuring you don't receive unnecessary treatments. Trusting a salivary gland specialist means you are getting an expert opinion on whether your condition can be managed conservatively or requires skilled surgical hands.
How Can I Schedule an Appointment for Salivary Gland Treatment?
Living with facial pain or a concerning lump can be stressful, but accessing expert care shouldn't be. We have made scheduling your appointment for salivary gland treatment simple and accessible. You can use our secure online scheduling portal to book your visit at any time of day, ensuring you get into our schedule without delay.
Our compassionate administrative team is also available to take your call, answer questions about insurance coverage, and help you prepare for your initial evaluation. We are dedicated to providing you with timely answers and effective solutions. Let us help you resolve your salivary gland issues and return to comfort.