Find out if your dry mouth could be due to a salivary gland problem.

Dry mouth can be annoying when it happens occasionally but it can be a downright nuisance if you are experiencing it often. While dry mouth can be caused by a variety of different issues find out if a salivary gland problem could be to blame and when it’s a good time to see your Simi Valley ENT doctor for treatment.

What are salivary gland disorders?

Salivary glands use tiny ducts to secrete saliva into the mouth. Saliva serves a myriad of functions, including aiding in swallowing, decreasing your risk of infection, and reducing the buildup of plaque and bacteria on teeth and gums. However, infections, salivary gland stones and even tumors can stop the salivary glands from working properly.

What are the symptoms associated with salivary gland disorders?

Those with salivary gland disorders may experience painful swelling under the chin or in front of the ears. You may also experience fever, dry mouth, facial pain and problems opening your mouth. Since salivary production is decreased as a result of these disorders, dry mouth is a very common symptom.

How are salivary gland disorders diagnosed?

The only way to know whether your dry mouth could be caused by a salivary gland disorder is to see your Simi Valley ENT doctor for a proper diagnosis. We will discuss your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a physical exam and run a series of imaging tests (e.g. X-rays). A biopsy of the salivary glands may also be taken for additional testing.

What are my treatment options?

There are several ways that your Simi Valley ENT doctor will treat your salivary gland disorders. A lot will depend on the root cause. If a bacterial infection is the cause of your disorder, then antibiotics will be prescribed. If an oral yeast infection is present, we may also need to prescribe an antifungal medication.

Usually, over-the-counter pain relievers are enough to treat your mouth pain. If you are still experiencing pain, we can prescribe a stronger medication to treat your discomfort. Rinsing your mouth out with salt water several times a day can also reduce swelling and remove pus due to an infected salivary duct.

If a stone or tumor is to blame, then surgery will most likely be necessary to remove the growths.

Want to get to the bottom of your dry mouth problems? Then call your Simi Valley ENT doctor today to schedule your next appointment with West Coast Ear, Nose and Throat. While dry mouth might not seem like a serious symptom it could be indicative of a bigger problem, so take the time to seek proper medical advice.