What Is a Submandibular Gland Stone? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
By the Best ENT Clinic in Dubai 🇦🇪
Have you ever felt a sharp pain or swelling under your jaw—especially while eating—that disappears afterward, only to return again later? You might be dealing with something called a submandibular gland stone. It’s more common than most people think and is often misdiagnosed or ignored for months.
At our ENT Clinic of Excellence in Dubai, we regularly treat patients who experience these symptoms, and many are surprised to find that a tiny stone in their salivary gland is the culprit.
Let’s break down everything you need to know 👇
💡 What Is a Submandibular Gland Stone?
A submandibular gland stone, or sialolith, is a small calcified mass that forms inside the salivary duct (usually Wharton’s duct) under your jaw. This duct is responsible for transporting saliva from the submandibular gland into your mouth.
When a stone blocks the duct, saliva backs up, causing pain, swelling, and—if left untreated—infection.
Why the submandibular gland?
- It produces thicker, mineral-rich saliva
- The duct runs against gravity
- Higher calcium and phosphate levels increase the risk of blockage
⚠️ What Causes Salivary Gland Stones?
A variety of factors can lead to stone formation, including:
- Dehydration (especially in Dubai’s hot climate ☀️)
- Medications that reduce saliva flow (e.g. antihistamines or diuretics)
- Chronic oral infections or inflammation
- Poor oral hygiene
- Reduced saliva flow during sleep
Over time, stagnant saliva can crystallize and harden into a stone.
👀 Symptoms of Submandibular Gland Stones
Watch for these common signs:
- Pain or swelling beneath the jaw—usually triggered by eating
- A lump near the floor of the mouth
- Dry mouth or a bad taste
- Pus or fluid discharge (in case of infection)
- On-and-off swelling depending on meals
If you’re noticing any of these, it’s time to visit an ENT specialist in Dubai for a proper check-up.
🔍 How We Diagnose It at Our ENT Clinic in Dubai
At the ENT Clinic of Excellence, we use the latest diagnostic tools to identify salivary gland stones quickly and accurately:
- Physical exam – Checking for lumps or tenderness under the jaw
- Ultrasound – A fast and painless imaging option
- X-ray or CT scan – For deeper or hidden stones
- Sialendoscopy – A minimally invasive camera-guided procedure that lets us see (and often remove) the stone on the spot
🛠️ Treatment Options for Salivary Stones
Treatment depends on the size and position of the stone:
✅ For Small, Non-Infected Stones:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Suck on sour candies or citrus to boost saliva flow
- Massage the area gently
- Use warm compresses
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene
🏥 For Larger or Painful Stones:
- Sialendoscopy – A precise, no-incision procedure done right here at our ENT clinic in Dubai
- Stone extraction through the duct using specialized tools
- Gland removal (very rarely) if stones keep coming back or are too large to remove safely
🛡️ How to Prevent Submandibular Stones
Simple daily habits can lower your risk:
💧 Stay well-hydrated
🧼 Maintain good dental hygiene
🚭 Avoid smoking
🍋 Occasionally eat sour fruits to stimulate saliva
❌ Limit medications that dry out your mouth (when possible)
👨⚕️ When to See an ENT Specialist in Dubai
If you have jaw swelling, recurring pain while eating, or a lump under your tongue or jawline, don’t ignore it. A salivary stone could be silently affecting your health—and early treatment is always easier.
At ENT Clinic of Excellence, our ENT consultant offers expert care using modern techniques like ultrasound-guided imaging, sialendoscopy, and pain-free in-clinic treatments. Whether it’s your first stone or a recurrent issue, we’ll guide you to safe and lasting relief.
📅 Book Your Consultation Today
Don’t let a small stone turn into a big problem. Let the best ENT clinic in Dubai help you feel better, fast.
📍 Location: Dubai Healthcare City – Building 64, Block A, 2nd floor
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +971 50 248 0249
🌐 Book Online: www.entclinic.ae
Eat, speak, and smile without pain. Let’s treat it before it becomes serious. 😌💙