Question
Why do children drool excessively? Do they need medical treatment? How long does it take to improve?
Answer
Children’s excessive drooling is caused by the characteristics of their oral cavity and growth and development. Newborns do not have teeth in their mouth, their tongues are short and wide, and they have thick fat layers in their cheeks. The facial muscles are well-developed, and the mucous membrane of the jawbone is thickened and protuberant. These features are beneficial for catching the nipple and coordinating suckling actions during feeding. By the time they are 6 to 7 months old, infants’ saliva production gradually increases, but their swallowing reflex is not yet sensitive enough. Therefore, the saliva secreted in the mouth is neither blocked by the alveolar ridge nor swallowed. As teeth emerge, the alveolar ridge forms, and swallowing movements are trained, the phenomenon of drooling will gradually improve. Generally, there is no need for special treatment for children who drool excessively. Just keep the oral cavity clean and wipe away the saliva in time. If excessive drooling persists or does not improve after a long time, it is recommended to consult a doctor to understand the specific situation and follow the doctor’s advice for treatment. The duration of treatment varies from person to person and is not fixed; it needs to be determined based on the actual situation.