DefinitionSalivary duct stones are crystallized minerals in the ducts that drain the salivary glands. Salivary duct stones are a type of salivary gland disorder.Alternative NamesSialolithiasisCauses, incidence, and risk factorsSaliva (spit) is produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. The chemicals in saliva can crystallize into a stone that can block the salivary ducts.When saliva cannot exit a blocked duct, it backs up into the gland, causing pain and swelling of the gland.Salivary stones most often affect the submandibular glands (at the back of the mouth on both sides of the jaw), but they can also affect the parotid glands (on the sides of the face).SymptomsDifficulty opening the mouth or swallowingDry mouthPain in the face or mouthSwelling of the face or neck (can be dramatic whe