Risk factors include radiation exposure and possibly smoking. The most common type of benign parotid tumor usually appears as a slow-growing, painless lump at the back of the jaw, just below the earlobe. Most salivary gland tumors occur in the parotid gland. They may result from traumatic injuries, infections, or salivary gland stones or tumors. Later in life, other types of cysts can form in the major or minor salivary glands. Babies sometimes are born with cysts in the parotid gland because of problems related to ear development before birth. This causes facial swelling, pain and difficulty eating.

Viral infections. Systemic (whole-body) viral infections sometimes settle in the salivary glands.

Without proper treatment, sialadenitis can develop into a severe infection, especially in people who are debilitated or elderly.

Sialadenitis also can occur in infants during the first few weeks of life. It is more common among elderly adults with salivary gland stones. Sialadenitis is a painful infection that usually is caused by bacteria. Sialadenitis (infection of a salivary gland).This can be followed by an infection called sialadenitis. When this happens, the gland typically is painful and swollen, and saliva flow is partially or completely blocked. In other cases, a stone blocks the gland's duct, either partially or completely. Some stones sit inside the gland without causing any symptoms. Medications that decrease saliva production, including certain antihistamines, blood pressure drugs and psychiatric medications.Decreased food intake, which lowers the demand for saliva.The exact cause of these stones is unknown. Sialolithiasis (salivary gland stones).Tiny, calcium-rich stones sometimes form inside the salivary glands.

Some of the most common salivary gland disorders include: They are located under the moist skin that lines the: In addition to these major glands, 600 to 1,000 very tiny, minor salivary glands are scattered throughout the mouth and throat. They have ducts that empty onto the floor of the mouth. Sublingual glands. Beneath the tongue.They have ducts that empty behind the lower front teeth. The duct of each parotid gland empties onto the inside of the cheek, near the molars of the upper jaw. Parotid glands. Located in the upper part of each cheek, close to the ear.There are three pairs of relatively large, major salivary glands: The salivary glands make saliva and release it into the mouth.

Painful lump in earlobe