ABSTRACT
The major salivary glands, and in particular the submandibular glands, are prone to the formation of stones (calculi). These form from the precipitation of inorganic calcium salts from the secretions of the glands. The mechanism of their development is not well understood, but there is some evidence that they are more prone to occur in people who have good dental hygiene. In the submandibular gland the stones initially form within the gland substance but work their way forward down the duct, and may be expelled at its opening in the floor of mouth. When a stone obstructs the duct, pain and swelling results.
