Salivary gland stone most commonly involves:

 # Salivary gland stone most commonly involves: 

a. sublingual gland 

b. Submandibular gland 

c. Parotid gland 

d. Lingual glands 

The correct answer is B. Submandibular gland. 

Sialoliths (salivary calculi or salivary stones) are calcified organic masses that form within the secretory system of the salivary glands. Although the exact mechanism of sialolith formation has not been established, it has been proposed that microcalculi are frequently formed in salivary ducts during periods of secretory inactivity. 

Sialoliths occur most commonly in the submandibular glands (80–90%), followed by the parotid (5–15%) and sublingual (2–5%) glands, and only very rarely occur in the minor salivary glands. Spontaneous secretion in the minor and sublingual salivary glands may provide continuous salivary flow, thereby preventing stasis.

The higher rate of sialolith formation in the submandibular glands is due to: (1) the torturous course of Wharton’s duct; (2) the higher calcium and phosphate levels of the secretions contained within; (3) the dependent position of the submandibular glands which leaves them prone to stasis; and (4) the increased mucoid nature of the secretion. In addition, since the submandibular and parotid glands’ secretion is dependent on nervous stimulation, in its absence, secretory inactivity increases the risk of stone development.