Having a Sialogram or Dacrocystogram

What is a sialogram / dracrocystogram?

This is an examination of the salivary ducts and glands in your mouth, or your tear ducts using a special x-ray dye, which is recorded in real time using x-rays. The images can be replayed for the doctor. This may help to provide a diagnosis, help identify your symptoms, or decide further treatment options.

How is this examination done?

You will be asked by the radiographer to remove and earrings or necklaces.

The radiographer will check your details to ensure you are the correct person and are having the correct examination.  

If you are aged between 10 and 55 we will ask you to confirm your gender and if there is a chance of pregnancy.

You will be expected to lie on your back with your head on a foam pad for this procedure. And the x-ray tube will be positioned above your head.

A very small tube is put into the salivary duct/tear duct. X-ray dye is then injected via the tube into the duct this should not hurt but maybe be slightly uncomfortable. The x-ray dye will travel to the gland. X-ray pictures are then taken with your head facing forward and rotated to the side.  The pictures are then checked before the small tube is removed.

If you are having a sialogram, the radiologist will squeeze some lemon juice into your mouth to help locate the duct. Another x-ray will then be taken to check if your gland and ducts have emptied.

Is there any preparation?

There is no preparation for the examination so please continue to take your normal medications.

Who will I meet?

Radiologist (A doctor who specialises in x-rays)
Radiographer
Student

How long does it take?

The examination can take up to 20 minutes

After your examination?

Your gland may temporarily feel full and the area around the entrance to the duct may feel sore.  You may eat and drink normally.

How do I get the results?

Your results will go back to the clinician who sent you for this examination.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the appointments team on 01305 254428.

About this leaflet

Author: Jeanette Bartlett, Lead Interventional/Fluoro Radiographer
Written: February 2025
Updated and approved: March 2025
Review Date: March 2028
Edition: v2

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk