What is Sialography?

• An x-ray (radiograph) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body.
• A sialogram is an x-ray test using contrast (x-ray dye) to look in detail at the larger salivary glands (the parotid or submandibular). These glands help to keep your mouth moist by draining saliva into your mouth through small tubes called ducts. The salivary glands and the ducts cant be seen on ordinary x-rays so contrast is used to demonstrate them.

Why do I need Sialography?

• Suspected sialolithiasis or salivary duct obstruction.
• Suspected sialadenitis: to identify ductal strictures.
• Suspectedsialectasis in chronic inflammatory disorders and autoimmune diseases.

Any preparation needed?

• There is no special preparation necessary. You may be asked to remove your dentures if you have any.
• You should inform your physician of any medicationsyou are taking.
• You will be asked to remove some of your clothes and to wear a gown during the exam. You may also be asked to remove jewelry, removable dental appliances, eye-glasses and any metal objects or clothing that might interfere with the x-ray images.