SALIVARY CALCULUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Salivary calculus, also known as salivary stones or sialoliths, refers to the formation of calcified deposits in the ducts of the major salivary glands. It is a medical condition characterized by the buildup of mineralized substances within the salivary gland ducts, impairing the natural flow of saliva. Salivary calculus typically occurs in the submandibular gland, which is located beneath the lower jaw, but can also affect the parotid or sublingual glands.
The formation of salivary calculus begins when minerals present in the saliva, such as calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate, precipitate and accumulate in the ducts. Over time, these deposits can increase in size, obstructing the flow of saliva and leading to various symptoms. Common signs of salivary calculus include pain and swelling in the affected gland or area, difficulty or pain while eating, as well as intermittent blockage of the salivary duct and subsequent release of accumulated saliva or pus.
The exact causes of salivary calculus formation are not entirely understood. Factors such as dehydration, poor oral hygiene, decreased saliva production, and certain medical conditions that affect the composition of saliva are believed to contribute to the development of salivary stones. Treatment for salivary calculus typically involves measures to improve salivary flow and alleviate symptoms. This may include drinking plenty of fluids, applying warm compresses, massaging the affected gland, and using oral hygiene techniques such as gentle brushing, rinsing with warm saltwater, or sucking on sour candies to stimulate saliva production. In some cases, the stone may need to be surgically removed or its position adjusted through procedures such as duct dilation or duct rerouting.
-
• (1) A c. in a salivary duct; (2) tartar of the teeth.
• A concretion in Wharton's duct.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SALIVARY CALCULUS
- aalivary calculus
- zalivary calculus
- xalivary calculus
- dalivary calculus
- ealivary calculus
- walivary calculus
- szlivary calculus
- sslivary calculus
- swlivary calculus
- sqlivary calculus
- sakivary calculus
- sapivary calculus
- saoivary calculus
- saluvary calculus
- saljvary calculus
- salkvary calculus
- salovary calculus
- sal9vary calculus
- sal8vary calculus
Etymology of SALIVARY CALCULUS
The word "salivary calculus" is composed of two parts: "salivary" and "calculus".
1. Salivary: The term "salivary" is derived from the Latin word "saliva", which means "saliva" or "spittle". Saliva is the watery fluid produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. It aids in the initial digestion of food and helps keep the mouth and teeth moist.
2. Calculus: The term "calculus" originates from the Latin word "calculus", which means "pebble" or "stone". In medical terminology, it refers to an abnormal mineralized deposit that forms on tooth surfaces or within the body, resembling a stone or pebble-like structure.
Similar spelling word for SALIVARY CALCULUS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
