Salivary glands ultrasound scan
An ultrasound of the salivary glands is a simple, quick and painless way to examine lumps, swelling, or pain in the mouth or jaw area. This is a non-invasive scan that can help give you peace of mind for issues in these areas.
- Price
- £300£50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation · scan about 10 to 15 minutes
- Preparation
- None needed
- Report
- Usually within 24 hours
Who it's for
When a scan can help
An ultrasound of the salivary glands is a simple, quick and painless way to examine lumps, swelling, or pain in the mouth or jaw area. This is a non-invasive scan that can help give you peace of mind for issues in these areas.
What it shows
This ultrasound scan looks at your salivary glands to check for
- Blocked salivary ducts
- Salivary gland stones
- Infections or abscesses
- Inflammation (sialadenitis)
- Cysts
- Changes related to autoimmune disease
What to expect
Your appointment
Before
No preparation is needed.
During
You’ll lie back while a specialist applies gel to the area around your jaw, cheeks, or neck. A small handheld probe is moved over your skin to capture images. The scan is painless and takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
After
You can return to your day straight afterwards. Your consultant explains what they have seen before you leave.
Who reads your scan
Consultant radiologists, specialists in this area
Your report
Your consultant talks you through what the scan shows while you are still in the room.
A written report follows, usually within 24 hours. If anything needs a closer look, we can arrange MRI, CT, blood tests or a specialist referral.
Frequently asked questions
What symptoms are related to salivary gland issues?
- Swelling in the cheeks, jaw or under the chin
- Pain when eating
- Dry mouth
- A lump near the ear or jaw
- Bad taste or pus in the mouth
- Trouble opening your mouth fully
- Fever or signs of infection
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you have persistent swelling or pain in your mouth, cheeks or jaw, especially if it worsens during meals. Seek help for lumps that grow, or if there’s fever, pus, or signs of infection.
Is it safe?
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and has no known side effects. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is moved gently over the area. You can return to your day straight afterwards.
Enquire or book
Tell us what you would like looked at and we will come back to you with times. You do not need a referral.