Salivary Gland Cancer Symptoms and Jaw Pain Issues

What are the characteristics of salivary gland cancer (including parotid and submandibular glands)?

1.
What are the symptoms of salivary gland cancer (including the parotid gland and submandibular gland)?
2.
Recently, I have experienced pain near my right jaw close to my ear when I open my mouth wide.
Sometimes it hurts, and sometimes it feels fine.
When I press on the junction of my right jaw and ear, I feel mild pain.
When I insert my finger into the external ear canal, there is also slight tenderness.
The left side does not have these issues.
When I push my jaw upward with my hand, I also feel pain in the right joint area.
Does this indicate temporomandibular joint disorder, or could it be other cancer symptoms? I occasionally grind my teeth, and I have been under significant mental stress lately, worrying about my health.
I often open my mouth wide to check for abnormalities in my oral cavity and do this several times a day.
3.
I have seen a dentist, and the doctor said there are no issues with my oral mucosa.
However, I have recently been accidentally injuring my mucosa while eating, causing bleeding and clotting, but it heals within a few days.
I also sometimes unknowingly bite or scratch my lips, affecting the deeper mucosa.
Could this be due to grinding my teeth at night? (I have one missing tooth on each side of my mouth, likely in the premolar area.)

greenchen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/12/07

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Dear Greenchen,
1.
Salivary gland cancer is likely to present with symptoms such as swelling in the affected area and facial nerve paralysis.
2.
Based on the reported symptoms, it appears to be a case of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Many of the muscles involved in chewing are attached near or directly to the TMJ, so pressing in front of the ear or pushing the jaw backward may elicit pain.
3.
Individuals who grind their teeth tend to first suck in their cheeks and then grind side to side, which can cause the buccal mucosa to be compressed between the upper and lower teeth, resulting in a white bite mark.
The mucosa may become swollen and prone to injury, so it is advisable to wear a night guard.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng
Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2012/12/07

More Info

Salivary gland cancer, particularly affecting the parotid and submandibular glands, can present with a variety of symptoms that may overlap with other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the symptoms associated with salivary gland cancer, along with insights into your jaw pain issues.

Symptoms of Salivary Gland Cancer
1. Swelling or Lump: One of the most common symptoms is a noticeable lump or swelling in the area of the salivary glands, which may be painless initially. This lump can be located near the jaw, under the chin, or in front of the ear.

2. Pain: As the tumor grows, it may cause pain in the affected area. This pain can radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck, and may worsen with movement or pressure.

3. Numbness or Weakness: If the cancer affects nearby nerves, patients may experience numbness or weakness in the face, particularly if the facial nerve is involved.

4. Difficulty Swallowing or Opening the Mouth: Tumors can interfere with normal swallowing or mouth opening, leading to discomfort or difficulty during these activities.

5. Changes in Saliva Production: Patients may notice changes in saliva consistency or quantity, which can lead to dry mouth (xerostomia) or difficulty in swallowing.

6. Persistent Oral Lesions: Ulcers or lesions in the mouth that do not heal can also be a symptom of salivary gland cancer.

7. Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss may occur, particularly if the cancer affects eating or swallowing.

Jaw Pain and Related Issues
Regarding your specific concerns about jaw pain, particularly when opening your mouth, this could indeed be indicative of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ disorders can cause pain in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, leading to discomfort when opening the mouth wide or chewing. The symptoms you describe, such as pain near the ear and tenderness when pressing on the jaw joint, align with TMJ dysfunction.

Potential Causes of Your Symptoms:
- TMJ Disorder: Stress and anxiety can lead to teeth grinding (bruxism), which may exacerbate TMJ issues. The pain you feel when pressing on the jaw joint could be related to inflammation or strain in the muscles surrounding the joint.

- Oral Trauma: If you are experiencing frequent oral injuries, such as biting your cheeks or lips, it could be due to unconscious grinding or clenching, especially during periods of stress.

- Salivary Gland Issues: While your symptoms may not directly indicate salivary gland cancer, any persistent pain or swelling in the area warrants further investigation.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can conduct a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to evaluate the salivary glands and surrounding structures.

2. TMJ Management: If TMJ disorder is diagnosed, treatment options may include physical therapy, stress management techniques, dental splints, or medications to relieve pain and inflammation.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of pain, and any new symptoms that may arise. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent any infections or complications from oral injuries. If you suspect bruxism, consider discussing this with your dentist, who may recommend a night guard.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to TMJ disorder or stress-induced behaviors, it is essential to rule out any serious conditions, including salivary gland cancer. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

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