Sialolithiasis of minor salivary glands

Sialolithiasis, or salivary calculus, is a disease of the salivary glands, characterized by the formation of mineralized structures within the excretory salivary ducts or the glandular parenchyma. Approximately 80% occur in the submandibular gland, followed by the parotid and sublingual glands. Although rare, sialolithiasis can also occur in the minor salivary glands. Although the oral cavity and upper lip are the most common sites, they can develop in any region of the oral cavity that contains minor salivary glands. Treatment is based on surgical excision of the lesion, with a favorable prognosis. This study presents three cases of sialolithiasis of minor salivary glands of the upper and lower lip, addresses their clinical characteristics and correlation with microscopic findings, diagnosis and treatment plans. Etiology and factors that should be considered during diagnosis, appropriate treatment and improved prognosis are discussed in this study.