Drooling is a natural process and we can experience it at some point in our lives. Infants and toddlers drool when they are teething, and it is a normal part of their development. However, after the age of three, drooling should become less frequent. Excessive drooling in children and adults can be a symptom of an underlying health issue or a treatable condition. If you experience this, then you must visit a dentist in Richmond Hill.
Here we will guide you all about excessive drooling, its cause, symptoms, and treatments. Let’s dive into the details.
Causes of Excessive Drooling
Excessive drooling can be a temporary, chronic, or permanent condition depending on the underlying cause.
Here are some common causes of excessive drooling highlighted by dentists near you.
Infections: Certain infections such as strep throat, sinusitis, tonsillitis, croup, and oral infections can lead to hyper sialorrhea. Now, once the infection clears, the drooling will certainly stop.
Chronic Treatable or Short-Term Conditions: Hypersialorrhea can be a symptom of conditions such as sleep apnea, acid reflux, and pregnancy. These conditions are treatable or short-term and can be resolved with proper treatment or birth.
Muscular, Neurological, or Genetic Disorders: You might get shocked but excessive drooling can also result from disorders that affect motor skills such as swallowing. These disorders include cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Rett syndrome, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Wilson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), strokes, and traumatic brain injury.
Medications: Some medications prescribed by the dental care near you for certain health issues can result in excessive drooling, while others cause dry mouth. Medications for conditions such as Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia can also cause hyper sialorrhea.
Symptoms of Excessive Drooling
Excessive drooling can cause the following symptoms:
Facial irritation and breakdown of the skin around the mouth that looks like a rash due to saliva pouring down over the bottom lip frequently.
Saliva buildup in the mouth and throat leads to food, drinks, and even saliva going into the lungs, which can cause pneumonia or other lung issues.
Reflex issues such as trouble swallowing, coughing, and gagging, can make it difficult to prevent food from going into the lungs
Treatment for Excessive Drooling
The treatment for hyper sialorrhea depends on the underlying cause. Some treatment options include:
Injections: Botulinum toxin type A injections into the salivary glands can be effective in reducing saliva production.
Medications: Allergy medicines, anticholinergic drugs, scopolamine patches, and atropine drops can help manage hypersalivation. However, it's important to talk to your reputed dentist near you about any potential side effects.
Surgery: Certain glands and ducts related to the salivary glands can be removed, relocated, or closed off through surgery.
Speech, Behavioral, or Occupation Therapy: These therapies can help strengthen, control, or move the tongue and deal with swallowing difficulties.
Dental Devices: Devices that stabilize the jaw and help with the position of the tongue and lips can also be helpful.
Final Takeaway
Excessive drooling can be a sign of a more serious health issue, so it's essential to get a medical diagnosis as soon as possible from the dental clinic in Richmond Hill. Treatment options are available and can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. By recognizing the symptoms, getting a diagnosis for the underlying cause, and seeking treatment, individuals can reduce the impact of excessive drooling on their physical and emotional health. So, book your appointment with Viva Dental Care today to know more.
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