Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the morphology, elemental constitution and crystal structure of two sialoliths; one from the parotid and the other from the submandibular gland. Also to search for the evidence to suggest the epithelial or bacterial core for the initiation of sialolith.

Materials and Methods: Sialoliths surgically removed from ducts of parotid and submandibular glands respectively were analyzed with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffractometry (XRD).

Results: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffractometry (XRD) showed that the crystal structure of both sialolith were apatitic in nature. The parotid stone was composed mainly of calcium phosphate, while its submandibular component incorporated calcium carbonate as well. The content of carbon also varied between the two large sialolith. The presence or absence of microorganisms could not be determined conclusively from the present study.

Conclusions: Thus in accordance with these study results, it may be concluded that sialoliths in the salivary glands may arise secondary to sialadenitis, but not via an organic nidus.

Key words: Large sialolith, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffractometry