Salivary Gland Disorders in Children: What Parents Need to Know

By Richard Hubbell, MD, Pediatric Otolaryngology

Salivary glands play a vital role in maintaining oral health by producing saliva, which helps with digestion, keeps the mouth moist, and prevents infection. When issues arise within these glands, it can lead to discomfort and health concerns. Salivary gland disorders in children, though relatively uncommon, can cause distress and require prompt attention. Understanding these conditions can help parents identify symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment.

What are salivary gland disorders in children?

Salivary gland disorders in children can be caused by a variety of factors, such as infections, blockages, or developmental anomalies. Three common conditions affecting children include:

• Sialadenitis: This condition refers to an infection or inflammation of the salivary glands, often caused by bacterial or viral infections. It typically presents with swelling and tenderness in the affected area and may be accompanied by fever.
• Mumps: A contagious viral infection that leads to swelling of the salivary glands.
• Recurrent Juvenile Parotitis: A common cause of parotid inflammation. It can be treated conservatively or with endoscopic techniques.

"The most common salivary gland disorder we encounter in children is a viral infection, which can lead to noticeable swelling and discomfort. In some cases, multiple glands can be affected simultaneously," says Dr. Hubbell.

Identifying salivary gland infections or disorders early can help prevent complications and ensure timely treatment.

What causes salivary gland disorders?

Salivary gland disorders in children can arise from a few primary causes: 

• Blockages: Salivary stones or mucus plugs can obstruct saliva flow, leading to pain and swelling, as well as certain autoimmune conditions.
• Viral Infections: Common viruses such as mumps or the flu can inflame the salivary glands, especially in young children exposed to germs at daycare or school.
• Injury or Trauma: A blow to the face or mouth can damage the glands and affect their function.

"Children often pick up infections from their peers, which can lead to viral salivary gland disorders. Younger kids may be more susceptible due to frequent exposure to viruses," says Dr. Hubbell.

Understanding these causes can help parents recognize when to seek medical advice, particularly if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

Diagnosing salivary gland disorders in children

Diagnosing a salivary gland disorder typically begins with a thorough physical examination, during which the pediatric ENT specialist will check for swelling, tenderness, and other signs of infection. If additional insight is needed, imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRIs may be used to get a detailed look at the salivary glands. These tests can help identify blockages, stones, or structural issues.

In some cases, a saliva culture may be performed to pinpoint the specific bacteria causing the infection. By combining physical assessments with advanced diagnostic techniques, doctors can ensure an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.

"Imaging and saliva cultures are invaluable tools for understanding the nature of the problem," says Dr. Hubbell. "They help us determine the best course of treatment based on the underlying cause."

Treatment options for salivary infections and disorders

Treatment for salivary gland disorders depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It can range from simple home remedies to advanced surgical procedures. Understanding the full spectrum of options can help parents make informed decisions for their child’s care.

Non-invasive treatments

For many salivary gland disorders, non-invasive treatments are effective and can resolve the condition without the need for surgery. Keeping the child well-hydrated is often the first step, as it helps maintain adequate saliva flow and prevent blockages. Gentle massage of the affected gland can also encourage drainage and alleviate discomfort. Applying warm compresses to the swollen area may further reduce inflammation and improve circulation to the gland.

If the disorder is caused by a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. These medications can target and eliminate the bacteria, helping the gland return to normal function. Viral infections, on the other hand, typically resolve on their own with supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief.

Minimally invasive interventions

In some cases, minimally invasive techniques are used to address blockages or chronic conditions. Sialendoscopy is a procedure where a tiny camera is inserted into the salivary duct to identify and remove obstructions, such as stones or mucus plugs. This technique is highly effective and allows for faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.

Surgical options

When non-invasive measures are not enough, surgical intervention may be necessary. For example, if salivary stones are too large to be removed through sialendoscopy, they may need to be extracted surgically. Similarly, abscesses that result from severe infections may require drainage to relieve pressure and promote healing.

In rare cases, children may develop benign cysts or other growths in the salivary glands. Surgical removal of these growths may be recommended to prevent complications. While surgery can sound intimidating, it is often performed with minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain and recovery time.

Holistic and supportive care

Beyond medical treatments, holistic care plays an essential role in recovery. Ensuring that the child maintains good oral hygiene, consumes a balanced diet, and adheres to follow-up care instructions can significantly improve outcomes. Parents can also provide emotional support, as dealing with any medical condition can be stressful for a child.

"In most cases, conservative treatment measures such as hydration and massage work well," says Dr. Hubbell. "However, for persistent or severe cases, minimally invasive or surgical options provide excellent results with manageable recovery times."

Preventing salivary gland disorders

Although some salivary gland disorders cannot be entirely prevented, parents can take steps to reduce their child’s risk:

• Encouraging proper hydration: Ensuring your child drinks enough fluids daily can help prevent blockages.
• Promoting good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing can help reduce the risk of infections.
• Staying up to date with vaccinations: Vaccines such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine can protect against conditions like mumps, which cause salivary gland swelling.

"While there are no guaranteed ways to prevent these disorders, good oral hygiene and staying current with vaccinations are key preventive measures," says Dr. Hubbell.

Richard Hubbell, MD, is an otolaryngologist at Loyola Medicine, specializing in diagnosing and treating conditions of the ear, nose, and throat. With a patient-centered approach, Dr. Hubbell is dedicated to delivering personalized care, using advanced techniques to address a wide range of ENT concerns. He is committed to improving his patients' quality of life through comprehensive, compassionate care.

Book an appointment today to see Dr. Hubbell or another ENT specialist by self-scheduling an in-person or virtual appointment using myLoyola.