Sialadenitis can present in an acute, chronic, or recurring manner. The causes are many and range from infections over obstructions to autoimmune and systemic diseases. Acute sialadenitis is caused by bacteria or viruses and can usually be treated by general practitioners, whereas patients with chronic or recurrent sialadenitis should be referred to an oto-rhino-laryngologist. This review covers the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of sialadenitis and presents a simple management algorithm for patients with suspected sialadenitis.