Salivary glands are specialized organs that secrete saliva, which is essential for lubricating the mouth and aiding swallowing. Through their enzymatic proteins, they also contribute to digestion and the immune function of the digestive system. The three paired major glands, located on each side, produce most of the saliva, while the minor salivary glands generate the remaining volume. Rheumatic diseases and other conditions can affect these glands, leading to swelling and/or sialadenitis, which ultimately result in oral dryness, impaired digestion, poor dental health, and an increased risk of additional oral infections. Understanding the embryogenesis, morphology, and function of the salivary glands allows for thorough examination and assessment of multiple glands. Collecting key information from clinical presentation and history, along with relevant serology, lab results, and specific imaging, will assist in diagnosis and future management. Moreover, specific histologic findings help identify abnormalities caused by various autoimmune, inflammatory, and vasculitic conditions. Relevant autoimmune and inflammatory diseases include Sjögren’s disease, Celiac disease, IgG4–related disease, Sarcoidosis, ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and Eosinophilic Sialodochitis.