Saliva moistens food, which helps you chew, swallow and digest it. Experts in oral pathology in Coral Springs, FL, would also tell you that it keeps the mouth clean and healthy because it contains antibodies that kill germs. For these reasons, saliva represents a vital element for our oral health. So, what can happen when we don't produce it correctly? Let's find out.
What Happens If They Don't Work Properly?
If the salivary glands are damaged or don’t produce enough saliva, it can cause salivary gland disorders, which affect taste, make chewing and swallowing more difficult, and can increase the risk of tooth decay, tooth loss, and oral infections.
What Can Cause These Disorders?
Infection
The gland can become infected when saliva collects behind a blockage in a duct. Lymph node infection associated with a sore throat or cold can also cause a secondary infection in the salivary glands.
Blockage
Small stones that form in the salivary ducts can obstruct saliva flow. The gland can become swollen, painful, and infected. If there are small narrowings or twists in the duct system of the large salivary glands, these can also decrease salivary flow.
Tumors
Tumors usually manifest themselves as painless growths in one of the salivary glands. Malignant (cancerous) tumors often grow rapidly and may cause pain and loss of movement on the affected side of the face.
Other Disorders
Diseases such as HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren's syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis can cause the salivary glands to swell and cause pain. Diabetes can also cause salivary gland enlargement. Alcoholics may have swollen salivary glands, usually on both sides.
Looking for a Specialist in Oral Pathology in Coral Springs, FL?
It’s very important to prevent any of the listed disorders from happening by visiting regularly an expert in the matter. Here at Oral Facial Reconstruction, we are ready to assist you and give you the best treatment available in the market. Give us a call now!
