Sialogram: X-ray of the salivary glands

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 keep your mouth moist by draining saliva into your mouth through small tubes called ducts. The salivary glands and the ducts cannot be seen on ordinary x-rays so a contrast is used to see them.

Preparation
There is no special preparation necessary. You may be asked to remove your dentures if you have any.

During the examination
X-ray pictures will be taken before the test begins to look at the area where the salivary gland is located. The person who performs your sialogram will place a small plastic tube into the tiny opening inside your mouth that leads to the duct of the salivary gland that you are having trouble with. Once this tube is in the correct position, a dye will be injected through the tube into the salivary gland. Another set of x-ray pictures will be taken to show the salivary duct and the salivary gland with the contrast injected into them. They can then be compared with the control pictures. When the radiologist is satisfied that they have all the information from the test they need, the plastic tube is removed. The test usually takes about 30 minutes.

After the examination
Once the test if finished you will be able to go home or back to work.