infant – Is it common for a 3 month old baby to drool and suck their fingers?
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My son has just turned 3 months old.
Recently I have observed him drooling and sucking his fingers. He usually drools more after feeding and sucks his fingers almost all the time.
Is this common or abnormal behaviour?
What might be the root cause and how can we break his habits?
infant
behavior
newborn
habits
Absolutely. What you’re seeing is entirely normal in babies, particularly around 3+ months old. Among other things, he might be beginning to teethe; both of those things are associated with teething. Drooling is associated with basically everything for many babies, and sucking on fingers (or thumbs or other things) is also very normal.
If the drooling is truly excessive, you may want to talk to your pediatrician to ensure it’s not due to a few particular causes (low muscle tone, in particular). Otherwise, buy a lot of bibs, and put a bib on him at all times, over his shirt, or under it if over is a problem. Make sure it’s a safe bib (that cannot choke him). Many bibs must be removed for sleeping, although I think some are safe(r).
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Yes, completely normal, and you should absolutely NOT try to “break his habits!” Drooling and chewing on anything that’s handy is a natural response to impending teething. If you don’t want him to chew on his fingers, you can give him something else for teething, but I think fingers are best, because teethers can get lost and cause unnecessary distress if he can’t find them or get them into his mouth. You can also be confident that none of his fingers are going to break off and become a choking hazard.
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Yes, ours baby girl has been drooling since she was 9 weeks. Babies can begin teething long before you see a tooth. But that doesn’t mean that she is indeed teething, Sometimes babies drool for no reason.
My tip 🙂 Chances are that your washing cycle has become much more frequent now you have a baby. You must use bandana bibs.
While bibs wont prevent mess, a bib does provide a layer of protection between your baby’s meal and the clothes which they are wearing. Rather than constantly washing baby food coated clothes, you simply clean the bib instead 🙂 it save lot of time and your baby is clean.
Yes, drooling and sucking fingers are very common habits. At the time of teething, sucking fingers helps soothe sore gums and is a baby’s way of calming himself. Drooling is common but if your baby is in danger of choking or gagging or if he finds any difficulty in breathing then you should consult your doctor.
Sucking fingers is not a problem but drooling if it is excess then consult your doctor once.
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I have a son of 4 month now who usually is sucking his fingers. At first I thought it was dangerous, but as time went on I just let him be, because at first he wasn’t doing that. I think over time he will learn to stop himself.
Here is a nice article with a guide for teething. That seems to be the most logical explanation. My kids were moderate droolers, but my nephew would soak a bib in an hour, bless his heart.
Also, we did not give either of our children pacifiers, so my daughter, especially, had her hands in her mouth a lot. It worried me, but it passed once her teeth grew in.
It could also be that your baby might be tounge and lip tied it is common for alot of parents not to get this sort of thing checked. My 3 month old has been drooling since birth. I my self didn’t think much of it till i realized its been going on to long ao looked it up and did some research and my little one falls into almost every category system that tounge and lip ties cause. Must look for a “CERTIFIED” Lactation Consultant” NOT just go to your local gp
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Why Some Babies Excessively Drool & What It Could Mean
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Karen Samuels
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There are a variety of reasons your baby may be drooling more than normal, some of which are more severe than others. Here’s what parents must know.
Infants begin to drool at 3 months, as the body secretes more saliva in preparation for solid foods. Due to their undeveloped oral motor function, they cannot coordinate their muscles to swallow all the saliva, and so, most of it ends up on their clothes. It is normal and necessary for babies to drool. It shows that their digestive system is developing. Mild drooling is normal – but how much drooling is too much? Keep reading to find out what it means when your baby drools excessively.
Via Flickr
Salivary glands produce 2 to 4 pints of saliva in a day; any more than this is excessive. In case your baby maintains a steady flow of saliva all day, they are drooling excessively. It would be best if you consult your pediatrician for a professional diagnosis.
What Does It Mean When Babies Drool A Lot?
Developmental Reasons
The following things cause excessive drooling as the baby grows:
Swallowing problems-the underdeveloped mouth muscles make it difficult for infants to swallow all the saliva. As they grow, the muscles mature, and drooling stops before their second birthday.
Absent front teeth– the front teeth are like a dam, barring saliva from sneaking out of the mouth.
Open-mouth resting posture– babies may adopt the open-mouth posture due to weak oral muscles, thumb sucking, or restriction of the airways (could be due to nasal congestion, inflamed tonsils, etc.).
Physiological Reasons
Hypersecretion of saliva results in drooling. These are some of the reasons that increase the secretion of saliva.
Teething– When babies start teething at around 4 to 6 months old, it stimulates the salivary reflex causing excessive saliva production. If your baby is teething, they are likely to show other symptoms besides drooling, including; irritability, inflamed gums, appetite loss, rubbing ears, and restless sleep.
Certain foods– Feeding your baby with spicy and sour foods and fruits increase the chances of drooling. If you have been feeding her spicy foods and acidic fruits like citrus fruits, cut back on them and observe any drooling changes.
Food sensation– Sometimes the drooling is a reaction to the smell of the baby’s favorite food.
Concentration
Anything that catches the baby’s attention for long enough will do two things:
Simulate the mind, which causes the hypersecretion of saliva.
Distract their attention from their mouth to the point of drooling.
Infections
Certain infections cause excessive drooling. They include:
Infection of the mouth or throat – Gingivostomatitis and coxsackievirus can cause excessive production of saliva. Epiglottitis, tonsillitis, or peritonsillar may cause swallowing difficulties and pain, which results in excessive drooling.
GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)– A baby with GERD might have occasional drooling when gastric acids irritate the esophagus.
Corrosive esophagitis– This is when the esophagus is injured after the ingestion of a corrosive agent like detergent or acids.
Metal poisoning– Poisoning with metals like mercury and selenium often causes hypersalivation.
Neurological Disorders
Via Flickr
Disorders that affect muscle control often lead to drooling. These diseases include:
Cerebral palsy
Wilson’s disease
Bell’s palsy
Autism
Polymyositis
Myasthenia gravis
Rett Syndrome
Medications
Drooling could be a side effect of medications like clozapine, morphine, methacholine, and haloperidol, which causes excessive salivation. Drugs like nitrazepam cause swallowing difficulties, which results in drooling.
How Excessive Drooling Can Harm Your Baby
Constant saliva irritates the skin. It causes chapping and rashes on your baby’s skin wherever the drool rests. You might notice red rashes or bumps under the baby’s lower lip, the chin, and sometimes the neck.
RELATED: This Baby Teeth & Gum Massager Has Been a Life Saver for Parents with Teething Newborns
That is why you should wipe that drool as frequently as is needed to keep her skin dry. Dab the saliva with a soft washcloth, preferably cotton, to avoid skin irritation. Other remedies include:
Use a bib to collect the drool.
Use a moisturizing ointment. Consult your pediatrician on the right cream to use.
When Should I Be Worried About Drooling?
Mild drooling is expected and normal. The body produces more saliva for swallowing, digestion, and oral hygiene. But this is when parents should be concerned:
If the baby keeps drooling past the age of 2 years, speak to your pediatrician.
Sudden drooling with speaking and breathing difficulties could be a sign of choking. You should call 911 and perform first aid immediately.
Drooling accompanied byfever, vomiting, sweating, agitation, sore throat and other disease-like symptoms need medical attention.
When unexplained drooling begins suddenly, it might indicate a medical condition.
If you are not sure whether the drool is normal or excessive, consult your child’s pediatrician. The doctor will examine the baby for underlying medical conditions and prescribe necessary steps, including treatment or therapy.
NEXT: 15 Must-Knows About The Baby’s Mouth From Tongue-ties To Teeth
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About The Author
Karen Samuels
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Karen is a momma that loves to write. She has been on writing on pregnancy, parenting, motherhood, and the realities of raising babies for the past four years. She’s worked with Woman Junction, BabyGaga, The Talko, The Things, as well as other sites. For inquiries, please email [email protected]
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Advice on Teething – Potomac Pediatrics| Rockville, MD
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Drool, Drool Everywhere: Advice on Teething
By Michelle Place, CRNP-P In the first few weeks of life we like to blame any irritability or general fussiness on gas (see blog post “It’s the Gas, Gas, Gas” posted March 29, 2017). As our babies get a little bit older and have a couple of months under their belt we start to blame any disruption in sleep patterns, unexplained crying, fever, diarrhea, runny nose, etc., etc. on teething. Knowing what to expect when your child’s first teeth are erupting through their gums will help you understand what is going on and how best to make your baby feel better.
When do babies start teething?
Around 2-3 months of age babies’ juices really start flowing. They start crying tears when they never had any before and the amount of saliva they produce increases to such a degree that they are unable to control it and it dribbles continuously from their mouths. Things are really damp and your mother-in-law (and everyone else you encounter on the street) declares that your baby is teething. Not yet. The earliest the first tooth generally makes an appearance is around 4 months of age. Most commonly, the first teeth come in around six months of age, but babies can start teething anywhere from six to 13 months. There is great variability in the timing of teething. If your child does not show any teeth until later in their first year, don’t worry. The timing is determined by heredity, and it does not mean that anything is wrong.
In what order do baby teeth come in?
Your baby was born with all 20 primary teeth in place below the gumline. The first teeth to appear usually are the two bottom front teeth, also known as the central incisors. They are usually followed 4 to 8 weeks later by the four front upper teeth (central and lateral incisors). About a month later, the lower lateral incisors (the two teeth flanking the bottom front teeth) will appear. Next to break through are the first molars (the back teeth used for grinding food), usually around your baby’s first birthday, then finally the eyeteeth (the pointy teeth in the upper jaw). Most children have all 20 of their primary teeth by their third birthday, so teething goes on for a long time!
How do I know if my baby is teething?
In many babies, you will not know until you look one day and spot that cute little tooth sticking out. For a lot of babies teething is a painless process. There are a lot of symptoms that are blamed on teething including fever, runny nose, and diarrhea to name a few. In reality teething only causes two symptoms, drooling and irritability, that is it! The reason parents think that teething causes fever, diarrhea and other symptoms is because in the second six months of life babies start attending daycare, mommy and me classes, and playdates. At the same time they also become more mobile and start putting everything into their mouths. As a result, babies develop a lot of viral illnesses at the same time that their teeth start coming. The timing is a coincidence. A fever greater than 100.4F is never caused by teething. To reiterate, there are only two signs of teething:
Fussiness: Just like any other time of fussiness, rocking, shushing and going for car rides can help soothe your baby.
Drooling: You have been warned: lots of drooling is in store when your baby is teething. That is because teething stimulates saliva, so be prepared.
What are the best teething remedies?
Keep baby’s face as dry as possible: Gently wipe your baby’s face often with a cloth to remove the drool and prevent rashes from developing.
Massage: A light, gentle rub or massage might give your little one a lot of relief. Remember to wash your hands, then massage the sore areas in your baby’s mouth with your finger or knuckle.
Give your baby something cold to chew on.
Make sure it’s big enough that it can’t be swallowed or choked on and that it can’t break into small pieces.
A wet washcloth placed in the freezer for 15-30 minutes makes a handy teething aid (tie one end in a knot for better gnawing). Be sure to take it out of the freezer before it becomes rock hard — you don’t want to bruise those already swollen gums — and be sure to wash it after each use.
Rubber teething rings are also good, but avoid ones with liquid inside because they may break or leak. If you use a teething ring, chill it in the refrigerator, NOT the freezer.
Pay attention to what teething toys are made of and how easy they are to wash: Your baby will be putting this toy in her mouth, so you want to be sure that it is made of safe materials and easy to clean to prevent mold from growing inside. Also, never boil to sterilize it — extreme changes in temperature can cause plastic to get damaged and leak chemicals.
Teething biscuits and frozen or cold food are only OK for children who already eat solid foods. Do not use them if your child has not yet started solids. Make sure to watch your baby to ensure that no pieces break off or pose a choking hazard.
Medication at bedtime: If your baby seems irritable, give a weight-based dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies older than 6 months) at bedtime to ease discomfort. Trying some of these other methods should ease your baby’s discomfort enough that giving medication around the clock is not necessary but a dose at bedtime for a couple of nights to help everyone sleep is reasonable.
Keep your usual bedtime routine: If your teething baby is irritable, try to make him comfortable, but keep to your usual bedtime routine. Changing the routine, even for a few nights, may lead to sleep troubles.
What teething remedies are unsafe for babies?
Teething gels with benzocaine: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that parents and caregivers not use benzocaine products for children younger than 2. Benzocaine is an over-the-counter anesthetic, which is found in products like: Anbesol, Hurricaine, Orajel, Baby Orajel and Orabase. These products can cause serious risks and provide little to no benefits for treating oral pain, including sore gums in infants due to teething. Benzocaine has, also, been associated with a rare but serious—and sometimes fatal—condition called methemoglobinemia, a disorder in which the amount of oxygen carried through the bloodstream is greatly reduced.
Homeopathic Teething Tablets: The FDA also urges parents not to use homeopathic teething tablets after lab testing found they contained belladonna, a toxic substance, sometimes far exceeding the amount stated on the label. Homeopathic teething products have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness, and the agency says it is unaware of any proven health benefit of the products. In late 2016, the FDA advised parents to stop using homeopathic teething tablets and gels after there were multiple incidents of babies and toddlers having seizures after taking them
Amber necklaces: There is a substance found in amber that when warmed by placing it next to the baby’s skin is supposed to pass through the skin to create a pain-relieving effect, however, there is no scientific research or evidence to back up these claims. The necklaces are a choking and strangling hazard. The FDA released an official warning in December 2018 after receiving reports of children choking on beads that break off and an 18-month-old being strangled to death by an amber necklace during a nap.
Never place an aspirin against the tooth, and don’t rub alcohol on your baby’s gums.
Now that they are here, how should I care for my baby’s teeth?
The care and cleaning of your baby’s teeth is important for long-term dental health. Even though the first set of teeth will fall out, tooth decay makes them fall out more quickly, leaving gaps before the permanent teeth are ready to come in. The remaining primary teeth may then crowd together to attempt to fill in the gaps, which may cause the permanent teeth to come in crooked and out of place.
Daily dental care should begin even before your baby’s first tooth comes in. Wipe your baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze, or brush them gently with a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and water (no toothpaste!).
Once your child has a tooth, you should begin brushing them twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice, especially after the last drink or food of the day. Remember not to put your baby to bed with a bottle because the milk or juice can pool in your baby’s mouth and cause tooth decay and plaque.
Once your child turns 3, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste be used when brushing. When your child is able, teach him or her to spit out the excess toothpaste.
It is best if you put the toothpaste on the toothbrush until your child is about age 6. Parents should monitor and assist their child while brushing until he or she is around 7 or 8 years old. When your child can write his or her name well, he or she also has the ability to brush well.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children see a dentist by age 1, or within 6 months after the first tooth appears, to spot any potential problems and give advice about preventive care.
Your baby’s teeth and gums will also be examined, and fluoride varnish applied, at well-baby checkups at Potomac Pediatrics. Remember, regular childhood dental care helps set the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
When you picture the first year of your baby’s life, you probably imagine plenty of smiles, snuggles, milestones and more. And then teething starts. When your child is teething, they can quickly change from a smiling, happy baby into a drooling, cranky mess — all because of that little white tooth trying to break through their ultra-sensitive gums.
When do babies start to get teeth? On average, babies will get their first tooth around 6 months of age, but there’s no specific age babies start teething. Some babies may start feeling the pain and discomfort of teething as early as 3 months. Others may not get their first tooth until closer to their first birthday.
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How to Tell If Your Baby is Teething
Each child is different, so their responses to the teething phase may vary. If you’re wondering “is my baby teething,” there are a few symptoms to look out for:
1. Crying and Irritability
One of the most common signs your baby is teething is a noticeable change in their mood. Even the happiest baby may suddenly become irritable. Your little one may cry more frequently or become easily agitated. Typically, this mood shift will be more pronounced in the weeks leading up to the appearance of their first tooth and gradually improve with other subsequent teeth. You may notice they become increasingly irritated again when their molars begin to appear during their second year.
2. Excessive Drooling
Another common sign of teething is excessive drooling. In some babies, this can start as early as 10 weeks of age and continue throughout the teething process. When a baby is drooling due to teething, it’s common for them to soak through their shirt (or their parent’s shirt) within a short period. No baby or parent wants to spend the day in damp clothing, so many parents use bibs to keep clothing dry throughout the day. Excessive drooling can also cause a rash on the skin around your baby’s neck, chin and mouth.
3. Biting
One of the first signs of teething is an increased interest in biting. The pressure the pain creates from a soon-to-erupt tooth can be relieved by applying counterpressure. Instinctively, teething babies will look for things to bite down on to get that counterpressure and relieve their discomfort. You may notice your little one biting anything they can get their hands on. For older babies who already have a couple of teeth, this can be especially painful if they try to bite while nursing.
4. Changes to Eating and Sleeping Routines
Teething is a 24/7 endeavor, which means it impacts all areas of a baby’s life. A child who is teething may struggle to nurse or drink from a bottle, as sucking may be painful to teething gums. If they’re older, they may refuse solid foods they loved just days before. The pain of teething can also disrupt sleep. Even babies who slept through the night prior to teething may suddenly be more wakeful during the night.
5. Cheek Rubbing and Ear Pulling
A teething baby may pull on their ears or rub their cheeks during the teething process. The ears, gums and cheeks all share the same nerve pathways. That means pain in the jaws from teething may be felt in the cheeks and ears too. These sensations are especially pronounced in babies who are cutting new molars. Because this particular symptom of teething can also be a symptom of an ear infection, it’s a good idea to check with your pediatrician if it continues for more than a few days — especially if it’s accompanied by other cold or flu-like symptoms like congestion and fever.
Teething Timeline
Your child’s teeth begin developing while they are still in utero, but they won’t cut through the gumline until several months after they are born. The teething age range varies from baby to baby, but in general, you can expect teething to proceed in this manner:
3 Months-6 Months: Signs That Teething Is Happening
Many parents find their babies begin drooling a lot and showing signs of discomfort as early as 3 months after birth. But that doesn’t mean a tooth is about to arrive. In fact, some babies can display signs of early teething and gum sensitivity for several months before a tooth actually appears. During this time, It’s important to focus on managing your baby’s pain and discomfort while you wait for the tooth to erupt.
6 Months-12 Months: The First Tooth
How long does it take for a tooth to break through the gums? On average, a child will cut their first tooth around 6 months of age, but it’s important to remember that number is an average. Some children get teeth sooner than that, and other children get their first tooth much later. Whatever their age when their first tooth appears, you can expect the first tooth to arrive will be one of the bottom front teeth. Once your baby has cut their bottom incisors, the next teeth to appear will be their four top teeth.
12 Months: The Molars Appear
Around your baby’s first birthday, you’ll likely notice signs that molars are making their way through the gums. Molars can also be very painful, so parents may notice their baby reverts back to some of their earlier teething symptoms, such as excessive drooling and irritability. Canines — the pointy teeth between incisors and molars, will also appear around this time.
12 Months-24 Months: The Teething Process Winds Down
During your baby’s second year, the teething process will primarily involve molars. Young children have two sets of molars, so once the first set appears around age 1, it’s time for the second set to make their way through as they approach age 2. Molars tend to be painful because of the broad flat surface breaking through the gums. As with earlier teeth, managing the discomfort is key to getting your baby through this uncomfortable time.
How to Soothe Your Teething Baby
Wondering what to do when your baby is teeth? Watching your baby struggle with the discomfort of teething is no fun, but there are some simple things you can do to help ease discomfort:
1. Keep Your Baby’s Face and Mouth Dry
All that drool coming from your baby’s mouth has to go somewhere. If you leave it on those chubby cheeks and cute outfits, there’s a good chance your baby will develop skin irritation. If you don’t want to change their clothes often, invest in teething bibs. These bibs can catch the drool and are easy to remove and replace throughout the day. Skin products such as Vaseline and Aquaphor can also be used on their skin to create a moisture barrier and prevent irritation.
2. Utilize Teething Rings and Toys
Teething rings are designed to apply counterpressure that reduces the painful pressure in a baby’s gums. Keep a clean supply of these rings around the house and in the diaper bag so you can soothe your baby at home and on the go. Products that can be put in the freezer are even better — the cold numbs their sore gums and provides some additional relief.
3. Consult a Pediatrician
Your child’s pediatrician can be a great resource for how to soothe your baby during teething. They can advise you on the best way to use over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen and non-medicated teething products designed to relieve pain and discomfort.
Trust Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for Quality Pediatric Dental Care
The American Dental Association recommends a child has their first dental checkup 6 months after their first tooth erupts or by the time they turn 1 — whichever comes first. An early pattern of dental checkups can help ensure your child’s teeth are developing correctly and prevent dental problems later in life. At Sprout Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, you’ll find a team of experienced dental professionals committed to taking care of your child’s teeth and gums every step of the way.
Call today to schedule your child’s first pediatric dentist appointment.
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Dr. Dana Fox
Dr. Dana grew up in Portland and went to Temple University in Philadelphia, PA for dental school. She then moved to Anchorage, AK for her residency in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Dana takes a holistic approach to pediatric dentistry & is able to use her own parenting experience to sympathize and understand each family’s unique dynamic.
January 21, 2021
by
Dr. Dana Fox
Teething
Is this your child’s symptom?
The normal process of new teeth working their way through the gums
Questions about teething
Baby teeth come in between 6 and 24 months of age
Caution: At least one tooth should be seen before using this care guide
Proven Symptoms of Teething
Teething has been researched in-depth. Kids who are teething are little different from kids who are not teething. Here are the main symptoms that have been proven:
Drooling. Increased spit and drooling.
Rash. Face rash from drooling. The drool contains little bits of food that are irritating to the skin.
Chewing. Increased need to chew on things.
Gum Pain. Gum pain is mild and not always present. May be due to mouth germs getting into the new break in the gum. Most often, your baby just acts a little more fussy. There’s not enough discomfort to cause crying. It also doesn’t hurt enough to cause sleep problems.
False Symptoms of Teething
Teething does not cause fever, diarrhea, diaper rash or runny nose.
It does not cause a lot of crying.
It does not cause your baby to be more prone to getting sick.
Caution about Fevers. Blaming teething for fevers can lead to a delay in seeking care for infections. Examples are ear and urinary tract infections. Another example is meningitis.
There are 2 reasons why infections start between 6 and 12 months of age. One is the loss of antibodies transferred to baby from the mother at birth. The other is the developmental milestone of chewing on everything.
Caution about Crying. Blaming teething for crying can lead to a delay of care for other illnesses. Examples are ear infections or other causes of pain.
When to Call for Teething
Call Doctor or Seek Care Now
Your child looks or acts very sick
Contact Doctor During Office Hours
You think your child needs to be seen
You have other questions or concerns
Self Care at Home
Normal teething
Seattle Children’s Urgent Care Locations
If your child’s illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911.
Bellevue
Everett
Federal Way
Seattle
Care Advice for Teething
What You Should Know About Teething:
Teething is a natural process.
It’s harmless and it may cause a little gum pain.
The main symptoms of teething are drooling and rubbing the gums.
It does not cause fever or crying. If these are present, look for another cause.
Here is some care advice that should help.
Gum Massage:
Find the irritated or swollen gum.
Rub it with your clean finger for 2 minutes.
Do this as often as needed.
Putting pressure on the sore gum can decrease pain.
Age over 12 months. You can use a piece of ice wrapped in a wet cloth to rub the gum.
Teething Rings (Teethers):
Babies rub their own sore gums by chewing on smooth, hard objects.
Offer a teething ring, pacifier or wet washcloth that has been chilled. Chill these items in the fridge. Do not use items frozen in the freezer.
Age over 12 months. A piece of chilled banana may help.
Do not use hard foods that could cause choking. An example is a raw carrot.
Do not use ice or popsicles that could cause frostbite of the gums.
Avoid “teething necklaces.” They are not approved by the FDA and are not helpful. They also have harmful risks including choking and death.
Cup Feeding:
If your baby refuses nipple feedings, try a cup.
A spoon or syringe can also be used for a short time as needed.
Pain Medicine:
Pain medicines usually are not needed for the mild discomfort of teething.
Fussiness often gets better with gum massage. If not, you can give an acetaminophen product (such as Tylenol). If age over 6 months, another choice is an ibuprofen product (such as Advil). Just do this for one or two days. (Reason: Frequent use can cause liver or kidney damage).
Teething Gels: Do Not Use
You can get special teething gels without a prescription.
Most have benzocaine in them. They are not approved by the FDA at any age.
Reason: Benzocaine can cause choking, bluish skin and allergic reactions. It can be very harmful if used during the first 2 years of life.
Also, teething gels only give brief pain relief.
Gum massage works much better.
What to Expect:
Most often, teething does not cause any symptoms.
If your child is having some discomfort, it should pass in 2 or 3 days.
Call Your Doctor If:
Crying occurs
Fever occurs
You think your child needs to be seen
Your child becomes worse
And remember, contact your doctor if your child develops any of the ‘Call Your Doctor’ symptoms.
Disclaimer: this health information is for educational purposes only. You, the reader, assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.
Teething is when teeth first come through a baby’s gums. It can be a frustrating time for babies and their parents. Knowing what to expect during teething and how to make it a little less painful can help.
When Does Teething Start?
While teething can begin as early as 3 months, most likely you’ll see the first tooth start pushing through your baby’s gum line when your little one is between 4 and 7 months old.
The first teeth to appear usually are the two bottom front teeth, also known as the central incisors. They’re usually followed 4 to 8 weeks later by the four front upper teeth (central and lateral incisors). About a month later, the lower lateral incisors (the two teeth flanking the bottom front teeth) will appear.
Next to break through are the first molars (the back teeth used for grinding food), then finally the eyeteeth (the pointy teeth in the upper jaw). Most kids have all 20 of their primary teeth by their third birthday. (If your child’s teeth come in much slower than this, speak to your doctor.)
In some rare cases, kids are born with one or two teeth or have a tooth emerge within the first few weeks of life. Unless the teeth interfere with feeding or are loose enough to pose a choking risk, this is usually not a cause for concern.
What Are the Signs of Teething?
As kids begin teething, they might drool more and want to chew on things. For some babies, teething is painless. Others may have brief periods of irritability, while some may seem cranky for weeks, with crying spells and disrupted sleeping and eating patterns. Teething can be uncomfortable, but if your baby seems very fussy, talk to your doctor.
Although tender and swollen gums could cause your baby’s temperature to be a little higher than normal, teething doesn’t usually cause high fever or diarrhea. If your baby does develop a fever during the teething phase, something else is probably causing the fever and you should contact your doctor.
How Can I Make Teething Easier?
Here are some tips to keep in mind when your baby is teething:
Gently wipe your baby’s face often with a cloth to remove the drool and prevent rashes from developing.
Rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger.
Give your baby something to chew on. Make sure it’s big enough that it can’t be swallowed or choked on and that it can’t break into small pieces. A wet washcloth placed in the freezer for 30 minutes makes a handy teething aid. Be sure to take it out of the freezer before it becomes rock hard — you don’t want to bruise those already swollen gums — and be sure to wash it after each use.
Rubber teething rings are also good, but avoid ones with liquid inside because they may break or leak. If you use a teething ring, chill it in the refrigerator, but NOT the freezer. Also, never boil to sterilize it — extreme changes in temperature could cause the plastic to get damaged and leak chemicals.
Teething biscuits and frozen or cold food are only OK for kids who already eat solid foods. Don’t use them if your child has not yet started solids. And make sure to watch your baby to make sure that no pieces break off or pose a choking hazard.
If your baby seems irritable, ask your doctor if it is OK to give a dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for babies older than 6 months) to ease discomfort.
Never place an aspirin against the tooth, and don’t rub alcohol on your baby’s gums.
Never tie a teething ring around a baby’s neck or any other body part — it could get caught on something and strangle the baby.
Don’t use teething necklaces made of amber. These can lead to strangulation or choking if pieces break off.
Don’t use teething gels and tablets because they may not be safe for babies.
How Should I Care for My Baby’s Teeth?
The care and cleaning of your baby’s teeth is important for long-term dental health. Even though the first set of teeth will fall out, tooth decay makes them fall out more quickly, leaving gaps before the permanent teeth are ready to come in. The remaining primary teeth may then crowd together to attempt to fill in the gaps, which may cause the permanent teeth to come in crooked and out of place.
Daily dental care should begin even before your baby’s first tooth comes in. Wipe your baby’s gums daily with a clean, damp washcloth or gauze, or brush them gently with a soft, infant-sized toothbrush and water (no toothpaste!).
As soon as the first tooth appears, brush it with water and fluoridated toothpaste, using only a tiny amount.
It’s OK to use a little more toothpaste once a child is old enough to spit it out — usually around age 3. Choose one with fluoride and use only a pea-sized amount or less in younger kids. Don’t let your child swallow the toothpaste or eat it out of the tube because an overdose of fluoride can be harmful to kids.
By the time all your baby’s teeth are in, try to brush them at least twice a day and especially after meals. It’s also important to get kids used to flossing early on. A good time to start flossing is when two teeth start to touch. Talk to your dentist for advice on flossing those tiny teeth. You also can get toddlers interested in the routine by letting them watch and imitate you as you brush and floss.
Another important tip for preventing tooth decay: Don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle. The milk or juice can pool in a baby’s mouth and cause tooth decay and plaque.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that kids see a dentist by age 1, or within 6 months after the first tooth appears, to spot any potential problems and advise parents about preventive care.
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: January 2018
A child at 2-3 months sucks his fist, drooling in bubbles: why is there profuse salivation?
In the human body there are large and small salivary glands, it is thanks to them that the regulation of salivation occurs. If this rather complicated process proceeds normally without deviations, they are able to secrete up to 2. 5 liters of saliva per day. Otherwise, certain disturbances in the functioning of vital systems may be accompanied by salivation – increased secretion of saliva, or in other words, hypersalivation. Also, excessive salivation in a child can be called ptyalism or sialorrhea.
The baby’s hand is always in the mouth, but saliva constantly flows down the chin? The reasons for this can be very different
In the period up to 2 years, children are characterized by excessive functioning of the salivary glands. At this age, this is a physiological feature. The reason may well be cutting milk teeth, which also force the crumbs to suck their own fingers or even fists. When a child drools in large quantities, this often leads to a rash in the mouth area, but it does not need treatment (more in the article: drooling in a month-old baby). It just needs to get through this time. Parents should be more attentive to the appearance of profuse salivation after the child is 2 years old, since various pathological causes can cause it.
Content
1. Droy in the baby and their causes
2. Providing the baby with abundant salivation
3. abundant salivation as a symptom of diseases
4. Hypersalivation
5. Obsions for contacting a doctor
2222 6. Video on the topic of the article
7. Readers’ questions and expert answers
Drooling in infants and their causes
All newborns in the first month are distinguished by the fact that their salivary glands have a fairly low level of secretory activity. It is not common for a one-month-old baby to drool a lot with blisters in general, but there are several factors that can cause excessive salivation:
READ ALSO: Why do babies often stick out their tongue?
Immaturity of the system that regulates salivation. However, by one and a half months, saliva secreted in large quantities will become normal, since it is by this age that the salivary glands begin to work more actively.
Allergic rhinitis or infection of a bacterial or viral nature. Such reasons are quite likely if there are no other symptoms (for example, the first teeth are climbing in the crumbs, and therefore he sucks his fists all the time).
Birth defects. In this case, you should consult a pediatrician.
When a 2-month-old baby drools, it is most often associated with the inability to swallow them – this physiological process naturally occurs only during feeding. During this period of time, the endocrine glands and salivary glands simultaneously begin to function in the baby’s body. As a result, a three-month-old baby can observe constant streams of saliva, but this is natural, and over time he will learn how to properly handle saliva.
READ ALSO: baby’s head sweats while feeding: main causes
Diseases, for example, rhinitis, can become the cause of increased salivation in babies cut first?). It is also accompanied by restless behavior, the child endlessly sucks his fingers, and sometimes the whole fist (see also: what to do if the child sucks his thumb?). The formation of the first teeth begins deep in the gum. Overcoming the way up, they injure the gum tissue, which causes a lot of pain, which is why the child sucks his fist and always puts his fingers in his mouth. Saliva helps soften the gums, thus reducing the pain experienced by the child.
READ ALSO: First Teeth – Overview of Symptoms
After the teeth have erupted, saliva performs important cleaning functions: thanks to its alkali content, it flushes out food residues after feeding and foreign particles that have entered the mouth, due to the fact that baby sucks pens. Thus, they help prevent dental pathologies.
Helping a baby with excessive salivation
The constant flow of saliva in an infant causes discomfort to both the baby and parents. The result of profuse salivation can be not only constantly wet clothes and a bad mood, but also irritation in the chin and chest area (more in the article: irritation from saliva on the chin of a baby). Such a rash, which appears as a result of endlessly flowing saliva, causes far from the most pleasant sensations and additional inconvenience. Plus, a large amount of saliva secreted can provoke a cough in the crumbs.
The use of teethers and special gels for gums will relieve itching in the mouth and soothe the baby.
To minimize all the resulting consequences, proper care, which includes:
The use of bibs. They have been resorting to their help for a very long time, and due to the presence of a lining made of waterproof materials, they perfectly protect the baby’s chest from constant exposure to moisture. It will not be superfluous to include them in the list of things that need to be purchased even before the baby is born.
Purchase of a pacifier. In the modern world, many mothers are trying to give up nipples. However, it can be very useful, because with it it becomes much easier for the baby to swallow saliva.
Purchase of teethers. Such inventions are aimed at reducing itchy gums. At the same time, they perfectly absorb excess saliva. It is important to regularly send them to the wash and rinse well.
Use of face creams containing vitamins A and E. Lubrication of irritated areas with them will reduce discomfort.
Laying the baby on the tummy. Since newborn babies lie on their backs almost all the time, saliva accumulates, as it is difficult for them to flow out of their mouths. Laying the baby on your stomach is a great solution to this problem.
Application of cooling and anesthetic gels. They will relieve itching in the gums, which in turn will lead to a decrease in irritation, and therefore a decrease in saliva.
READ ALSO: why does a 2-month-old baby constantly stick out his tongue?
Despite all the inconvenience associated with excessive salivation, in most cases it is perfectly normal. All children go through this, and parents just need to be patient and, if possible, alleviate the condition of the crumbs.
If you are still concerned about your baby’s continuous salivation that is accompanied by other symptoms, consult your pediatrician. It also describes the measures that can be taken to somehow alleviate his condition:
What worries the child?
probable reasons
Your actions
In the first half a year of life, the baby is irritable, seeks something to bite, chew, pulls any objects in mouth
The process of eruption of milk teeth
Calival a nipple, special rubber rings or just a cold object will help
The baby has a headache, a throat, a stuffy nose, snot flows, he sneezes, coughs, he has a fever, lymph nodes in his neck may have enlarged (we recommend reading: why a newborn sneezes and how to treat it?)
SARS or tonsillitis, sometimes streptococcal
Call a doctor and reduce the temperature with paracetamol in the required dose
Painful ulcers or white spots appeared on the oral mucosa of the crumbs
Stomatitis
Examination by a pediatrician and appropriate treatment . At home, you can rinse your mouth with a solution of soda
In the sitting position, the baby takes deep breaths with an open mouth with the presence of noise, while his chin is lowered. A high temperature rises and the child complains of severe sore throat
Epiglottitis – swelling of the epiglottis. This is a growth that covers the windpipe
Only children over the age of three are affected by this disease. It is necessary to calm the baby and yourself so as not to aggravate the already difficult breathing and call an ambulance
Sudden fall with twitching of the limbs
Convulsions
Immediate call for an ambulance
there are two years, maybe:
a disease that disrupts the functioning of the salivary glands, such as viral sialadenitis;
helminthic infestation;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including pancreatitis and peptic ulcer;
all kinds of deviations in the work of the central nervous system;
nervous stress.
In children over two years of age, drooling may indicate an illness, such as a gastrointestinal problem.
Based on functional tests of the sublingual and parotid salivary glands that are performed to date, only increased salivation can be diagnosed. In the absence of pathologies, the amount of saliva secreted, which ranges from 1 to 4 ml within 20 minutes, is considered within the normal range. When exceeding 10 milliliters, it is believed that a person has such a pathology as hypersalivation. Its false form can manifest itself, for example, as a result of a trauma to the tongue or bulbar palsy.
In any case, whatever the underlying cause of hypersalivation, the underlying disease must be treated. Elimination of the main problem will entail an independent cessation of salivation.
Hypersalivation
If we consider salivation from a physiological point of view, this process assumes the mutual work of the receptors of the periphery and the brain. The point is that when saliva is collected in the mouth, then the command to swallow it is transmitted through the motor pathways to the brain. When the functioning of the reflex sensorimotor arc is disturbed, as a result of a distortion of sensitivity, or in other words, with hypoesthesia, the flow of information from the oral cavity does not reach the brain. This leads to the fact that the number of involuntary swallows during the day decreases, which means that the amount of saliva increases.
In order to restore reflex swallowing, it is necessary to correct the sensorimotor arc. In order to overcome this problem, you need to try to create conditions under which the brain will again receive sufficient information.
Only a doctor can choose a treatment method for complicated salivation, the main thing is not to let everything take its course, the disease will not go away by itself
Cryotherapy is considered the most effective way to combat hypersalivation. The bottom line is to hold an ice stick on the tongue of the crumbs. Naturally, this approach does not give 100% guarantees, but if salivation does not stop completely, then at least it is significantly reduced. Cryotherapy does not work instantly, but requires endurance and perseverance, but it is less painful than surgery and dental correction.
Reasons to see a doctor
If up to two years of age, increased salivation in children is a physiological norm, then after this age limit, this problem requires the help of specialists. The consultation will clarify whether such a situation is temporary and normal from the point of view of physiology, or, on the contrary, pathological, and one cannot do without medical intervention.
In the case of true hypersalivation, drugs are prescribed that have an anticholinergic effect. These include:
Spasmolytin;
Atropine;
Tifen;
Diprofen and others.
Taking these drugs has a number of side effects that can be an order of magnitude more serious than excessive salivation. Surgery and radiation are also dangerous with abnormalities such as caries or facial asymmetry. Any decisions regarding the treatment of the problem should be made deliberately, choosing methods based on their appropriateness and individual characteristics.
Excessive salivation can provoke dysarthria in an older child – a violation of pronunciation. Speech becomes slurred and unintelligible. This, in turn, slows down the pace of development, which negatively affects its socialization. In such cases, a qualified speech therapy massage may be needed. During this period, the baby should drink more water in order to restore fluid losses in the body. Whatever leads to the problem of salivation, it is important not to let it take its course.
READ ALSO: dysarthria in children
Pediatrician of the 2nd category, allergist-immunologist, graduated from the Belarusian State Medical University of the Federal Agency for Health and Social Development. Read more »
Why a child is drooling –
Contents
Why a child is drooling
In what cases medical attention is required
However, there are pathological conditions that are not physiological and require medical attention.
Pathology of the oral mucosa: eg thrush, stomatitis; viral diseases that affect the salivary glands themselves (viral sialadenitis), the so-called false hypersalivation, when the amount of saliva remains normal, and leakage occurs due to the pain syndrome associated with the above conditions.
Pathology of the nervous system (cerebral palsy, brain tumors, encephalitis, pseudobulbar syndrome (damage to the cranial nerves), etc.).
Problems in the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, enteritis, etc.).
Worm infestations.
Poisoning by poisons, barbiturates, mercury, lead, etc.
What to do if the child is drooling heavily
The main thing is to recognize whether excessive salivation is a signal of a dangerous illness. This will be helped by a pediatrician who, if necessary, will refer the child to a narrow profile doctor to clarify the diagnosis and correct treatment.
If increased salivation is due to the imminent appearance of teeth, then the following can be recommended to the mother of the child:
Put bibs on the baby that do not get wet and protect the baby’s skin from hypothermia during a walk.
In case of skin lesions due to prolonged contact with saliva, lubricate the affected areas with dexpanthenol ointment or creams that contain retinol and vitamin E.
Offer cool teethers to the baby. They will temporarily relieve itching. You can also use anesthetic gels.
Make sure that objects put into the child’s mouth are clean and cannot be swallowed.
Photo: Shutterstock.com
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Why does a 3 month old baby drool?
Quite often, babies aged 2-3 months have increased salivation, because of which the mother has to change clothes several times a day. At first, this problem does not cause much concern, but in the future, the chin may become inflamed in the baby, which will cause him pain and irritation. The child begins to act up, worry, may not sleep well.
All this makes parents go to the pediatrician with the question why the child drools heavily at 3 months. In this article, we will look at the main causes that cause profuse salivation in babies of this age.
Why does a 3 month old baby drool?
Babies may have several causes for excessive salivation. Let’s consider the main ones:
The main reason why a three-month-old baby may experience abundant salivation is preparation for teething. It would seem that the first teeth in babies usually appear around 6 months, and there is still too much time before that. The baby’s gums are not swollen, and in general there are no signs of dentition in the mouth. However, teething can disturb a child from 2 months of age. At the same time, the baby will experience a lot of unpleasant sensations associated with their movement in the gums, and you will not notice anything for a long time, except for abundant saliva on his face.
In some babies, especially premature babies, the salivary glands are not yet fully developed. In this case, they may produce more saliva than the child can swallow.
One of the most unpleasant causes of excessive salivation is stomatitis. Saliva is a kind of natural barrier against microbes, therefore, in the presence of a disease of the oral cavity, it is produced more than usual.
Finally, in rare cases, increased secretion of the salivary glands indicates the presence of serious diseases of the brain or nervous system, such as cerebral palsy or encephalitis. Of course, in this case, abundant saliva will not be the only sign of the disease, and an experienced doctor will be able to immediately determine that something is wrong with the child.
Why a child drools a lot and what to do about it
Publication date: 09/18/2018
Saliva is a clear liquid produced by the salivary glands in the mouth. Since the newborn has not yet fully developed the function of swallowing, the mother can watch her baby salivate during sleep. Saliva aids digestion and flushes out bacteria and food debris from the mouth. Salivation is a normal process for babies in the first two years of life, but what if the child is constantly drooling? What are the causes of excessive salivation in older children? Let’s hear the opinion of experts.
Saliva secretion and stages of its formation
Every day our body produces from 1 to 2 liters of saliva, which we swallow without noticing. It is another matter with babies: they have an involuntary flow of salivary fluid, and children cannot yet control this condition. Drooling usually continues until the baby is 18 to 24 months old. The process is very common during teething, so moms and dads should be prepared for the fact that the baby will have saliva everywhere: on clothes, things, toys.
When a small child drools like a river, this is normal and is considered a sign of the physical development of the baby:
This happens frequently at 1-3 months, especially when the baby is in a supported sitting or lying position.
At 6 months, parents notice that salivation increases (due to the appearance of the first teeth) when the son or daughter reaches for toys or mumbles.
B 9months, the baby is already crawling, salivation is reduced, but teething can still stimulate salivation.
By 15 months, the baby will already be walking and running, and saliva is almost invisible. However, fine motor activities that require concentration can lead to involuntary saliva flow.
At 18 months, the baby no longer drools, but this occasionally happens when dressing and playing.
At 24 months salivation is minimal.
What role does saliva play in a child’s body
A baby’s drooling and blisters show that your baby is going through a new stage of growth. Saliva itself contains beneficial enzymes that help digest semi-solid and solid foods, which is especially important for a 4-6 month old baby. Saliva neutralizes stomach acid and promotes the formation of the internal mucosa. It wraps the food and makes it easier to swallow.
Causes of excessive salivation in children
Parents, of course, are worried when a child drools like a river. Why is this happening? We list the main reasons:
Teething. Although the baby does not yet see teeth until 6-8 months, the process itself begins very early. That’s why around 3 months of age, a baby’s saliva is overproduced: the teeth begin to break through the gums.
Mouth open. An infant may keep his mouth open for quite a long time due to a blocked nose or habit. In this regard, he may not swallow saliva, which leads to increased salivation.
Concentration of attention. The little explorer does not swallow saliva because he is concentrating on some task or interesting subject. Here is the oral fluid and follows.
Nutrition. Unusually sour food often provokes salivation in a baby.
Neurological disorders. Neuritis of the facial nerve (Bell’s palsy), infantile cerebral palsy, autism, Down’s syndrome are diseases manifested, among other things, by excessive salivation in children.
Side effects of medicines. Some drugs cause an increase in the muscle tone of the lips, which leads to an excess of saliva.
Toxic exposure, including mercury vapours, insect bites.
Should the child be treated?
Salivation does not require any treatment as it is a normal part of growing up. Medical care is needed for those children who are no longer babies: they are older than 4 years old, and saliva still flows like a river, and it is not possible to keep clothes dry without a bib.
At the appointment, the doctor will definitely check:
Whether the child closes his lips and rolls his tongue correctly.
Does he swallow normally, are there any hoarseness and pathologies in the esophagus (tumors, swollen tonsils).
Whether breathing is free through the nose.
Does the child have a natural swallowing reflex.
Whether the jaws function correctly and their position.
Presence of allergies.
A child’s lower lip, chin, cheeks, and neck may develop irritation and a rash due to the constant flow of saliva from the mouth. Try to immediately blot these sensitive areas of the skin, dry with a clean soft towel, and apply a cream (based on lanolin, coconut oil) or Vaseline, aloe vera gel. Be sure to use a bib so that saliva does not penetrate the baby’s neck and chest.
If the baby is sick, treat a runny nose in a timely manner so that the nose breathes well and does not allow saliva to collect in the mouth during sleep. The child may wake up choking on excess saliva. Keep track of how your child sleeps, whether he is comfortable in the crib.
We hope that this article will help you learn more about the problem and help you understand when to see a specialist if salivation does not stop.
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Teething
3 December 2016
Teething
When your baby begins to chew everything that is tucked under his arm, and saliva flows from his mouth, it is not difficult to guess that the period of teething has come.
Teeth start to squeeze through the gums when your baby is about six months old. At the same time, the gums become red and sensitive, and some children become moody and irritated with each new tooth erupting.
This process continues until all twenty teeth have erupted, which usually occurs around the age of two and a half years. Here’s what you can do to help your child cope with the discomfort that comes from teething.
Rub gums . If you just rub your baby’s gums with your finger, he may feel better. And if you rub your gums with a small gauze pad, it will not only help relieve the pain of teething, but it will also clean your baby’s mouth and get him used to the feeling of brushing his teeth.
Comfort and reassure him . Sometimes tenderness and caress can reduce discomfort and improve the baby’s well-being during teething. You only need to caress your baby, rock him or walk with him and he will feel better.
Wipe drool . Drooling from the mouth always accompanies teething, and clothing that becomes wet with drool can cause a rash, especially on the neck and upper chest. To prevent this, change your baby’s clothes more often or wear a cloth bib.
When to see a doctor . Teething can make a baby feel sick, but it usually doesn’t require medical attention. Here are the normal teething symptoms:
baby makes chewing movements;
he is naughty;
drooling from the mouth;
he is crying;
he has red, swollen gums.
When teething, the temperature usually does not rise, as well as there is no nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite. If your baby has these symptoms, they are most likely caused by something else. Check with your pediatrician.
Why my baby is drooling – Rambler/female
Drooling is a fairly common condition in children under two years of age. But when saliva is produced in too much quantity, it can cause concern for parents.
Roza Serdyuk, chief physician of Okdoctor, a remote telemedicine consultation service, told Letidor when salivation is considered normal and when it can be a symptom of a disease.
Why saliva is needed
Saliva is a clear, colorless liquid that is produced into the oral cavity by the salivary glands.
Its functions are quite diverse:
Participates in the initial stages of food processing: under the action of enzymes, gradual digestion of fats begins, enveloping food fragments, which facilitates the further movement of the food bolus through the digestive tract. Thanks to saliva, we can feel the taste of food, we have an appetite.
Protects – the substances contained in it prevent the excessive growth of pathogens; protects tooth enamel from the aggressive influence of acids and alkalis.
Contains substances that have an analgesic effect, which is important when teeth appear in babies.
Regulates the self-cleaning mechanisms of the mouth and teeth, washing them from food particles and bacteria.
Participates in the formation of speech.
What is considered normal
Hypersalivation, scientifically called increased salivation, is characterized by increased secretion of the salivary glands, as a result of which the child produces too much saliva.
The salivary glands of a baby begin their work in the womb. Their active functioning occurs closer to two months.
In children 3-4 months of age, saliva often flows from the mouth. This is due to immaturity in the control of salivation and ingestion of saliva (physiological salivation). At this age, the child tries to pull all objects into the mouth, thus recognizing the environment. Often, toys are not sterile, and microbes that enter the body begin to attack it.
In response to such an “invasion”, the active work of the salivary glands begins, which indicates the correct functioning of the immune system.
When a child has a runny nose and has to breathe through his mouth, the work of his internal organs instantly changes. So that when air is inhaled, the mucosa does not dry out, the salivary glands begin to actively produce their secret, which helps to humidify the inhaled air and disinfect it.
There are also cases when a child chokes on saliva and coughs when breathing through the mouth, as they are unable to breathe and swallow the accumulated liquid at the same time.
For children under two years of age, this condition is considered physiological, it is associated with the appearance of teeth.
When medical attention is required
However, there are pathological conditions that are not physiological and require medical attention.
Oral mucosal pathology: eg thrush, stomatitis; viral diseases that affect the salivary glands themselves (viral sialadenitis), the so-called false hypersalivation, when the amount of saliva remains normal, and leakage occurs due to the pain syndrome associated with the above conditions.
Pathology of the nervous system (cerebral palsy, brain tumors, encephalitis, pseudobulbar syndrome (damage to the cranial nerves), etc.).
Problems of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, enteritis, etc.).
Worm infestations.
Poisoning by poisons, barbiturates, mercury, lead, etc.
What to do if a child is drooling heavily
The main thing is to recognize whether excessive salivation is a signal of a dangerous illness. This will be helped by a pediatrician who, if necessary, will refer the child to a narrow profile doctor to clarify the diagnosis and correct treatment.
If increased salivation is due to the imminent appearance of teeth, then the following can be recommended to the mother of the child:
Put bibs on the baby that do not get wet and protect the baby’s skin from hypothermia during a walk.
In case of skin lesions due to prolonged contact with saliva, lubricate the affected areas with dexpanthenol ointment or creams that contain retinol and vitamin E.
Offer cool teethers to the baby. They will temporarily relieve itching. You can also use anesthetic gels.
Make sure that objects put into the child’s mouth are clean and cannot be swallowed.
Increased salivation or hypersalivation: symptoms of hypersalivation
Sometimes there may be increased salivation, which is not related to food intake. Such a symptom should be treated with increased attention, since excessive salivation may indicate the presence of problems in the body.
Excessive salivation or hypersalivation can cause a lot of discomfort. How to understand that saliva is secreted too much? Increased swallowing of saliva or the feeling that there is a large amount of fluid in the oral cavity indicates a possible hypersalivation. In the case when, in addition to these symptoms, nausea, heartburn and sore throat are observed, you need to consult a specialist. Also, a change in the smell and color of saliva can become a symptom.
Abundant production of saliva is normal in the following cases:
eruption of milk teeth;
hormonal disruptions in the body associated with age-related changes;
period of pregnancy;
presence of prostheses in the oral cavity;
installed braces;
eating.
Symptoms of hypersalivation
Most often, increased salivation caused by some disease is accompanied by other symptoms:
fever;
general malaise;
nausea;
heartburn;
pain when swallowing food;
taste changes.
The main factors causing excessive saliva production include:
intoxication of the body;
gastritis, gastric ulcer;
worms;
angina;
CNS pathology;
vascular diseases;
diseases of the thyroid gland;
infections in the body;
extraction of teeth;
wearing dentures or braces;
menopause;
frequent stress;
bad habits.
In adolescence, hypersalivation may be associated with such phenomena as:
hormonal disruptions in the body;
malocclusion;
abnormal functioning of the kidneys;
diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
psychological trauma;
heart diseases.
Toxicosis during pregnancy also provokes increased salivation.
In old age, such a problem may arise for the following reasons:
endocrine disorders;
malocclusion;
side effect after taking medication.
The specialist will be able to determine the reason for the problem. In the process of diagnosis, such studies are carried out as: examination, history taking and identification of hereditary predisposition. After the examination, if necessary, the specialist will refer the patient for tests or for a consultation with another specialist.
Treatment depends on the provoking factor, and, accordingly, therapy is primarily aimed at eliminating the cause of increased salivation. As a rule, the following methods are used:
sanitation of the oral cavity;
LFC;
cryotherapy;
special medications that reduce increased salivary secretion;
removal of salivary glands.
Excessive salivation may indicate a serious problem with the body. Ignoring such symptoms can lead to a number of complications:
dehydration;
respiratory infections;
jade;
problems in the digestive system;
insomnia, disturbance of psycho-emotional state.
In order to minimize the risk of developing pathology, general preventive measures should be observed:
good oral hygiene;
visits to a dentist every six months;
systematic professional cleaning of teeth and gums;
healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables;
active lifestyle;
giving up bad habits.
Why does a cat drool from the mouth – why does a cat drool
Increased salivation can be a symptom of the disease.
Not as common, but some cat owners may notice excessive salivation in their pets. What can this be about?
There is nothing pathological in the salivation of the animal. This fluid performs a number of important functions for the normal life support of the animal. Including protective – protection of the mucous membranes of the mouth, gums, tongue and teeth from mechanical influences of various origins, digestive – supply, softening and ensuring facilitated transport of food into the digestive tract. So salivation in a cat is a natural process, and many owners do not even notice it. But what if the salivation is so abundant that the pet owner began to pay attention to it?
What are the signs of excessive salivation? If the owner began to notice that the cat licks itself too often and diligently, and the chin and neck are wet, and the hair on the chest is wet and looks like icicles, this is an alarm signal. It is worth paying close attention to the behavior of the cat: if the pet wipes himself on the furniture, wet spots or puddles are found in the place where the cat sleeps, you should immediately take action.
If salivation, or salivation, is too profuse, this may only indicate problems with the health of the pet. The cause of this process can be various disorders. So, for example, infection with various viral diseases (for example, rabies) may be the basis, which, among other things, are accompanied by increased body temperature and abundant water consumption by the pet, nausea.
Another reason may be poisoning of various origins, from food to chemical. It is important in this case to determine what exactly this reaction was received, accompanied by vomiting, a change in the consistency of the stool.
Also, diseases of the oral cavity, teeth, and gums can be the cause of increased salivation. These disorders will be accompanied, among other things, by obvious pain when the animal eats.
Excessive salivation can also be caused by foreign objects in the mouth, throat or esophagus (food debris, parts of toys, hair). Chronic diseases, digestive tract disorders, oncological diseases, and even helminths can cause increased salivation.
Don’t jump to conclusions on your own. In itself, profuse salivation is not a disease, but in combination with other symptoms indicates the presence of a certain disease, which can only be ascertained by a veterinarian after conducting and deciphering special tests. It remains for the owner to seek help from a specialist in a timely manner and, taking into account the instructions of the veterinarian, begin treating the pet.
10 drooling facts about baby saliva
When you have an infant, you may have to deal with a lot of cleaning. Babies burp, blow out diapers, and drool. Blowing bubbles is adorable, but you might be worried if your little one is constantly soaking his shirt with saliva. How much is too much, and should you be concerned about excessive salivation?
1. Humans produce 2 to 4 liters of saliva every day The human body produces 2 to 4 liters of saliva every day. Saliva is essential to keep your baby’s mouth moist. It aids in swallowing and removes leftover breast milk, formula, or food. Saliva helps keep your mouth healthy.
2. Salivation begins between 3 and 6 months of age Newborns have little saliva. Their digestive system doesn’t need much help from saliva enzymes until they start eating solid food. The body starts preparing them for this between 3 and 6 months of age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents begin offering solid foods to babies at six months of age.
3. Infants cannot swallow as well as adults Babies lack the muscle development and coordination needed to swallow all saliva. When their bodies start producing more, they don’t know how to deal with it. There seems to be more saliva coming out of their mouth than inside.
4. Salivation comes with milestones You may notice that your baby is drooling more around the same time he has mastered other milestones like putting his hands in his mouth. Saliva becomes a new sensory experience to explore and play. Babies will use their hands to feel drool and cook raspberries to explore the sensations on their lips.
5. Drooling may mean your baby is teething. You may notice saliva coming out of your baby’s mouth when they are teething. The sensations that occur during teething stimulate salivation. However, just because your three-month-old baby is drooling doesn’t mean you’ll soon see a tooth come out. The first tooth usually appears around 6 months of age.
Causes, stages of development and treatment
Last updated
When saliva comes out of the mouth unintentionally, it is called salivation. We have six salivary glands that produce saliva for us, and when excess saliva is produced, we tend to drool. Drooling is a common occurrence in babies. Babies begin to salivate at about 3 months of age. Some babies salivate a little, others a lot. If you see your child drooling excessively, it may be due to underdeveloped muscles in the mouth or due to excessive salivation in the mouth. But there is nothing to worry about, since salivation is part of his physical development.
Video: Is drooling in babies normal?
How often do babies drool?
Babies usually drool, and babies may drool in their first two years of life. Since the baby does not have full control over swallowing and mouth muscles, he may drool even in his sleep. If your baby has started to drool, you can expect the condition to continue until he is 18-24 months old. Drooling is quite common during teething, so be prepared to change your baby’s clothes about 5-6 times a day. Babies often drool. But if a child drools even after the age of four, then this is not normal.
Salivation in infants 1 to 24 months
Salivation in infants is normal and may even help with their development. At different stages of life and as a child grows, there may be slight to excessive salivation.
1. 1-3 months
When a baby is 1 to 3 months old, he may not drool at all. Drooling at this time is rare, as the baby is always in the face-up position. So he may not drool at this time, or even after that. But some babies may start to drool by 3 months of age.
2. 6 months
Drooling is a little more controlled by this time, but it continues when the baby babbles or puts toys in its mouth. Babies are usually teething by this time, so they drool.
3.9 months
At this stage, babies begin to roll over and crawl. They may continue to drool as they are still teething. Teething can stimulate salivation.
4. 15 months
By 15 months, most babies walk and run, but they cannot drool while walking or running. However, if they are engaged in activities or tasks that require concentration, they may drool.
5. 18 months
Babies will not drool while doing normal activities or activities that promote fine motor skills. But they may drool while being fed or dressed.
6. 24 months
By this time, salivation in babies is minimal. It is practically non-existent.
Does saliva play an important role in a child’s development?
Yes, salivation does play an important role in the growth and development of a child. Salivation is a sign of teething in a child. Drooling and blowing soap bubbles are also a sign of the physical development of babies. If your baby is drooling or blowing bubbles, then this is a sign that he has entered a new period of growth. If your child is drooling after the smell of milk or food, you should know that his sense of smell is growing. Drool contains enzymes that help baby digest semi-solid or solid foods between 4 and 6 months of age. Saliva neutralizes stomach acid, aids in the full development of the baby’s intestinal mucosa, and protects the esophageal mucosa from irritation. Saliva also helps bind food because of its smoothness, which makes it easier to swallow.
What is excessive salivation in babies?
When there is an involuntary secretion of saliva from the mouth of a child after he has reached the normal age of salivation, this can be called excessive salivation. If your little one has a lot of drool after they turn 2 years old, you should check with your doctor. Although often associated with excessive salivation, excessive salivation is due to poor coordination between the mouth and tongue. This lack of coordination can lead to poor swallowing.
What are the causes of excessive salivation in babies?
Excessive salivation in infants and toddlers is caused by the following:
1. Teething
Although babies do not have a tooth by 6-8 months, teething begins quite early. This is the reason that saliva flows already at 3 months of age. When the teething phase begins, there is excess saliva production and they may salivate excessively as the tooth pushes through the gums.
2. Open mouth posture
If a child has a habit of keeping his mouth open for a long period of time, he may drool. If your baby keeps his mouth open for a long time due to a stuffy nose or just out of habit, then he may not swallow saliva at regular intervals and therefore may drool.
3. Maintain concentration for a long time
When babies and young children concentrate on a particular task, their mind is stimulated. When stimulated, saliva production increases six times. In infancy, their ability to swallow excess saliva is insufficient. And when they focus on a task, their attention is diverted from their mouth position and tongue movements, leading to drooling.
4. Food
The secretion of saliva from the glands in the mouth occurs in response to taste sensations when eating a variety of foods. Eating acidic or spicy foods leads to excessive salivation. If your child eats spicy foods or fruits such as oranges, limes, grapes, he may have excessive salivation.
5. Neurological disorders
Many neurological disorders, such as Bell’s palsy and cerebral palsy, present with symptoms such as drooling and excessive salivation. Bell’s palsy is a temporary nerve disorder that affects one part of the face. Diseases that affect the brain, such as cerebral palsy, Bell’s palsy, and Wilson’s disease, affect muscle control, which causes difficulty in swallowing, accumulation of saliva in the mouth, and misalignment of the lips, which can lead to drooling.
6. Side effects of medications
Some medications, including medications used to help sleep and relieve pain, and medications used to test vision in babies or even mothers of breastfed babies, can cause increased production of saliva. Heavy metal poisoning can also cause hypersalivation, which can make babies salivate.
Treating Salivation
Salivation in infants is normal and salivation is an important part of infants’ physical development and maturation. However, it is not normal for them to drool when they are 2 years old. If your baby is drooling even after two years, don’t take it lightly. You should consult your doctor as this requires medical attention. If your child is drooling heavily, see a doctor immediately as it may affect his social life and his daily activities. If your baby has a lot of drool, the doctor will look for the following signs to come to a conclusion and suggest treatment for it.
• If your child can properly purse his lips and move his tongue. • If your child swallows normally. • If he has a stuffy or stuffy nose. • If the child has a natural swallowing reflex. • The posture of the child and the firmness of his jaw.
After these scores, the following processing line is followed:
• Helps the child practice the closed lip stance. • Reducing acidic foods in children’s diets. • Work on the child’s ability to swallow. • Face lifting. • Improving oral sense perception to help your child recognize when their mouth or face is wet. • Oral motor therapy to strengthen his jaw, cheeks and lips. This therapy will help him swallow saliva properly.
What is a salivary rash?
The baby’s lower lips, cheeks, neck, and chest may show signs of skin irritation due to the constant flow of saliva through the mouth. red uneven rashes in these areas. If a rash from salivation appears around a child’s mouth, it is called drooling. To treat a salivary rash, you need to thoroughly wash the affected area, pat it dry and apply a lanolin-based cream. You can tie a bib around your baby’s neck to keep saliva out of the neck and chest. You can even apply petroleum jelly to the affected area to keep it hydrated and heal quickly. However, check with your doctor before applying creams or lotions to your baby’s skin.
When to see a doctor
You should consult a doctor if your child is drooling even after four years of age. Uncontrolled salivation caused by diseases can be eliminated by contacting a pediatrician. Talk to your child’s doctor – they may recommend therapy or medication. However, if therapy or medication fails to provide relief, you should consider a higher level of treatment.
Salivation is a natural way to help your baby moisten and soften solid foods and make them easier to swallow. Although it performs many important functions for a child, watch carefully if salivation increases and does not show signs of stopping after the age of four. Seek medical attention to address the problem before it gets worse.
Also read: oral thrush in babies
Baby drool at 2 months? Here’s what you need to know!
Your precious child is growing so fast – it seems like he will change in the blink of an eye!
Despite all these changes, some of them may bother you, especially if you are a first-time parent.
For example, does your baby drool at two months? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about your drooling two-month-old!
What to know when your baby starts salivating at two months
It’s OK!
The baby starts to drool at the age of two or three months.
Why is this happening?
Infants cannot fully control the muscles that control swallowing until 18-24 months of age. In addition, the average person produces two to four pints of saliva per day!
Not being able to swallow saliva, expect your child to salivate for a long time to come!
Is your baby healthy?
Is your baby drooling at two months? Drooling is actually a positive indicator that your baby’s digestive system is developing well.
For example, saliva helps break down food before it reaches the stomach. In addition, saliva destroys bacteria and cleans the mouth, preventing your child from getting sick.
Therefore, if your child is salivating excessively, it means that his digestive system is working properly!
This is not a sign of teething
Many people think that salivation is a sign of teething. However, there is no direct correlation between them. In fact, these two events occur at the same time.
When your child begins to develop fine motor skills such as chewing, receptors send signals to the brain that trigger saliva production. So when your baby is ready to start eating solid food, he will start to drool more!
So salivation is not a direct sign of teething. However, it is likely that both events will occur at about the same time.
What if saliva causes irritation?
In some cases, saliva can cause irritation around the mouth, such as a rash or dry skin.
If this happens to your child, try to gently wipe off the saliva so that it does not linger on the child’s face for too long. Alternatively, you may consider applying an ointment to the affected area at night.
After all, there is nothing you can do to prevent your child from salivating. After all, it is a natural and healthy part of a child’s development!
Autism and drooling: why so often? What helps?
Our 3 year old was recently diagnosed with autism. He has made progress and is now talking, asking and labeling. But he drools all the time, and we have to constantly wipe his face. How can we help him not to drool?
Today’s “any questions?” The answer came from behavioral analyst Cara Reagon, Autism Speaks’ associate director of science dissemination.
Editor’s note: The following information is not intended for diagnosis or treatment and should not replace personal consultation, if necessary, with a qualified healthcare professional.
Everyone is drooling – at least to begin with. Typically, developing babies begin to control their swallowing and mouth muscles between 18 and 24 months of age. But children with developmental disabilities often drool excessively and for longer than other children. This includes children with autism, many of whom have delays and difficulties with muscle control and sensation.
What causes excessive salivation? Salivation is usually associated with low muscle tone, lack of sensation around the lips and face, difficulty swallowing and/or excessive salivation. Various neurological disorders and attention deficits can contribute to these problems, as is common in children and sometimes in adults with autism.
You are right to be worried. Drooling becomes a social stigma when it continues beyond infancy. It’s also unhygienic – an important issue since your son attends group activities such as preschool.
However, drooling in some situations, such as during sleep, is usually harmless, unless it is so strong that your child inhales the saliva.
So let’s focus on your son’s tendency to drool throughout the day.
Examination and Treatment Options First, it is important to discuss your son’s salivation with his pediatrician or pediatric ear, nose, and throat specialist in order to eliminate or rule out serious comorbidities. Most likely, this will involve examining the tonsils, sinuses, and salivary glands. In addition, some medications can increase salivation—another issue to discuss with your son’s doctor. In addition, the doctor should evaluate whether your son’s salivation is causing him to inhale saliva into his lungs, which puts him at risk for pneumonia.
Treatment options should be tailored to your son’s needs and may require additional evaluation, such as by a speech or occupational therapist experienced in oral sensitivity and muscle tone issues.
Speech and occupational therapists can help your son improve oral muscle tone, close his lips, and improve swallowing. In some cases, the therapist may recommend a dental appliance or chin cup to help close lips, position tongue, and swallow.
It can also help reduce the amount of acidic foods your son eats, as they can cause excessive salivation. But it’s important to check with a nutritionist before making any major changes to your son’s diet, especially if he’s already a picky eater.
Goals of therapy Salivation can usually be managed with occupational and/or speech therapy that focuses on the following:
1. Develop correct posture and posture Sometimes poor control of the muscles of the trunk, neck and head causes the head to tilt downward. In this position, saliva tends to accumulate at the front of the mouth and flow out of the parted lips. Your therapist can help you position your child for proper trunk control and head support.
2. Increasing the strength and control of the muscles of the oral cavity. Therapists use a variety of oral-motor play exercises to help children tone the muscles around their mouths. closed lips, such as “p”, “b” and “m”. The therapist will show you how to continue doing these exercises at home, with a lot of encouragement in the form of praise and/or a small reward.
3. Increased oral sensitivity. Similarly, therapists have a variety of tactile exercises that can help your child develop sensitivity to the lips, tongue, mouth, and chin. This includes understanding what dryness and wetness are, so that your child knows when he or she is drooling. . Mouth sensitivity play exercises can include blowing soap bubbles, making exaggerated sounds that affect the lips, such as “ooooh”, “eeee” and “pooh-pooh-pooh”. The therapist will again tell you how to do these exercises at home.
4. Practice proper chewing and swallowing. Does your child drool excessively while eating? In this case, you and the therapist can work with your child to learn how to chew and swallow properly. These exercises are useful when your child is hungry enough to eat, but not hungry. In general, the therapist will show you how to simulate or exaggerate appropriate chewing movements (closing teeth and then lips, etc.) and encourage your child to do the same. It is better to give your son a hand mirror so that he can watch him perform these actions. As always, do not forget to encourage and praise, for example:
.
“Great. You’re chewing on a cracker. Great, you swallowed a cracker! Good food.”
5. Practice wiping with a tissue or handkerchief. While your child is learning to be aware of facial wetness, it is important to encourage the socially acceptable practice of wiping with a tissue or handkerchief. While eating, I suggest teaching him the habit of “wipe, wipe, swallow” – wipe one side of the mouth and then the other before swallowing. Try attaching a napkin to your bracelet while eating to develop this habit.
You mentioned that your son is constantly drooling. So you’ll also want to teach him the habit of wiping with a handkerchief when he’s not at the dinner table. This includes helping him learn how to keep a clean handkerchief handy in his pocket. Another option is to ask your son to wear sweat bands around his wrists and advise him to regularly wipe each side of his face with them.
From the dinner table and away, you’ll want to signal your child—perhaps by wiping your mouth—when you see him drooling.
6. Add everything together with the rewards. Be sure to create a reward system to reinforce every step your child takes in chewing, swallowing, wiping, and most importantly, keeping the face clean and dry. At age 3, you might want to keep it simple – with lots of praise and little rewards. But your son may be old enough to use the token system, which involves earning bigger rewards like doing something you love to do.
One of my favorite resources is How to Stop Drooling by speech pathologist Pam Marshall. Find out more about her book on her website here.
Readers: Have more questions for our behavioral and health experts? Send them to [email protected] .
Does your child salivate normally or excessively?
Parents often wonder if it is normal for their child to drool. You may notice that your child’s toys are covered in saliva after playing, or you may notice a wet shirt collar during the day. The short answer is
to the question “i s drooling normally?” is “ sometimes “. At certain points in your baby’s development, drooling is quite typical. At other stages of its development, this is atypical and further intervention may be required.
Salivation stages:
According to Morris & Klein in Pre-Feeding Skills, Second Edition , as your child develops, the following salivation stages can be expected:
One to three months : Between one and three months of age, drooling is rare when your baby is in the supine or reclining (lying face up) position, although some drooling may occur when the baby is lying or sitting position with support.
Six months : By six months, salivation becomes more controlled when the child is lying on his back, lying on his stomach or sitting. You may notice drooling when your baby babbles or plays with his hands, points, or reaches for objects. Drooling can also occur during baby teething or in response to eating certain foods.
Nine months : By nine months, salivation rarely occurs during major physical activity such as crawling or rolling. You may still notice salivation during teething.
Fifteen months : By fifteen months of age, salivation rarely occurs during major motor activities such as walking and running, although you may notice some salivation during fine motor activities such as stacking blocks or manipulating objects. It can also continue with teething.
Eighteen months : By eighteen months, your baby no longer drools when doing fine motor skills. Salivation may occur during feeding, dressing, playing, or teething.
Twenty-four months : By twenty-four months salivation is minimal.
Why babies drool:
Saliva performs many necessary functions. It helps bind food while eating, which is important for safe swallowing. Saliva also aids in the digestion of food and helps keep the mouth clean. In a typical child, the unnecessary loss of saliva stops at about 4 years of age. For other children, however, it may be excessive.
According to Morris & Klein in Pre-Feeding Skills, Second Edition , the following possible causes of excessive salivation may include:
Teething that produces more saliva.
Poor oral sensory awareness resulting in decreased likelihood of swallowing. If your baby’s face is constantly wet, he may be less responsive to sensory cues that tell him to swallow.
Permanent open-mouth posture that prevents saliva accumulation and induces swallowing when necessary.
Difficulty swallowing effectively, which may be due to poor head and trunk control, poor jaw stability, or increased or decreased muscle tone of the lips.
Response to certain products.
Response to motor activity requiring balance.
Possible side effect of certain medicines.
How to help a child who drools a lot:
If you are concerned about the frequency and amount of salivation, seek help from a licensed speech therapist, feeding therapist, or occupational therapist. A therapist can help you determine the root cause of salivation and specific interventions.
Therapeutic interventions may include the following:
Sensory enhancement to help your child better understand when their face or mouth is wet.
Improved head and trunk control for better control of effective swallowing.
Improved oral-motor control (i.e. lips, cheeks, jaw) for better saliva control and efficient swallowing.
Helps the child to assume the closed mouth position.
Improving the child’s ability to swallow.
Teach your child about wet and dry.
Working with a licensed professional, you can remove any insecurities you may have and find answers to your questions. Most importantly, your child will get the help they need to better control how much they drool.
Sources:
Morris and Klein. (2000). Prefeeding Skills Second Edition . Austin, TX: Pro-Ed.
NSPT offers service to Bucktown, Evanston, Deerfield, Lincolnwood, Glenview, Lake Bluff, Des Plaines, Hinsdale and Mekvon! If you have any questions or concerns about your child, we’d love to help! Call us at (877) 486-4140!
Why do some children drool excessively and what it can mean
There are many reasons why your child may be drooling more than usual, some more serious than others.Here’s what parents need to know.
Babies start salivating at 3 months as the body produces more saliva in preparation for solid foods. Because of their underdeveloped oral motor function, they cannot coordinate their muscles to swallow all of their saliva, and so much of it ends up on their clothes. For babies, this is normal and necessary. This shows that their digestive system is developing. Light salivation is normal, but how much salivation is too much? Keep reading to find out what your child’s excessive salivation means.
Signs of excessive salivation
Via Flickr
Salivary glands produce 2 to 4 liters of saliva per day; more than that. If your child continues to salivate all day long, he or she is salivating too much. It is best to consult a pediatrician for a professional diagnosis.
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What does it mean when babies drool a lot?
Causes of development
The following factors cause excessive salivation as the baby grows:
Swallowing problems – underdeveloped mouth muscles prevent infants from swallowing all saliva. As they grow, the muscles mature and salivation stops by their second birthday.
Front teeth missing – Front teeth are like a dam that prevents saliva from flowing out of the mouth.
Open Mouth Resting Position – Infants may adopt the open mouth position due to weak oral muscles, thumb sucking, or airway restriction (may be due to nasal congestion, sore tonsils, etc.).
Physiological causes
Hypersecretion of saliva causes salivation. These are some of the causes that increase saliva secretion.
Teething – Teething in babies aged 4 to 6 months stimulates the salivary reflex, causing excessive saliva production. If your baby is teething, they may have symptoms other than drooling, including: irritability, gum disease, loss of appetite, ear rubbing, and restless sleep.
Certain foods – Feeding a child spicy and acidic foods and fruits increases the likelihood of salivation. If you’ve been feeding her spicy foods and acidic fruits like citrus fruits, reduce your intake and pay attention to any changes in salivation.
Sense of food — Salivation is sometimes a reaction to the smell of a child’s favorite food.
Concentration
Anything that grabs a child’s attention long enough will do two things:
Imitate the mind causing hypersecretion of saliva.
To divert their attention from the mouth to a state of fluidity.
Infections
Some infections cause excessive salivation. These include:
Mouth or Throat Infection – Gingivostomatitis and Coxsackievirus may cause excessive salivation. Epiglottitis, tonsillitis, or peritonsillitis may cause swallowing difficulty and pain, resulting in excessive salivation.
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) — A child with GERD may occasionally drool when stomach acid irritates the esophagus.
Corrosive esophagitis – This is when the esophagus is damaged after ingestion of a corrosive agent such as detergent or acids.
Metal poisoning — Metal poisoning such as mercury and selenium often causes hypersalivation.
Neurological disorders
Via Flickr
Disorders affecting muscle control often result in salivation. These diseases include:
Children’s cerebral paralysis
Wilson’s disease
Bella paralysis
Autism
Polymiositis
miastenia gravis
of the drugs 9000 morphine, methacholine and haloperidol, which cause excessive salivation. Drugs such as nitrazepam cause difficulty in swallowing, leading to salivation.
How excessive salivation can harm your baby
Constant saliva irritates the skin. This causes your baby’s skin to crack and break out wherever saliva drips. You may notice red bumps or bumps under the baby’s lower lip, chin, and sometimes neck.
RELATED: This baby teeth and gum massager has been a lifesaver for parents with newborn teething
That’s why you should wipe up saliva as often as necessary to keep skin dry. Wipe saliva with a soft washcloth, preferably cotton, to avoid skin irritation. Other defenses include:
Use a bib to collect saliva.
Use moisturizing ointment. Consult your pediatrician for a suitable cream.
When should I worry about drooling?
Some salivation is expected and normal. The body produces more saliva for swallowing, digestion and oral hygiene. But this is when parents should be concerned:
If the child continues to salivate after 2 years , talk to your pediatrician.
Sudden salivation with difficulty speaking and breathing may be a sign of choking. You should call 911 and provide first aid immediately.
Salivation associated with fever, vomiting, sweating, agitation, sore throat and other symptoms requiring medical attention.
When unexplained salivation starts suddenly , this may indicate a health condition.
If you are unsure whether saliva is normal or excessive, check with your child’s pediatrician. The doctor will examine the child for underlying medical conditions and prescribe the necessary steps, including treatment or therapy.
NEXT: 15 things you need to know about your baby’s mouth, from tongues to teeth
Sources: Parenting.firstcry, Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/, Healthline eating sodas and breastfeeding
About the Author
Karen Samuels (710 articles published)
Karen is a mom who loves to write. She has worked with Woman Junction, BabyGaga, The Talko, The Things, among other sites. For questions, email [email protected]
More by Karen Samuels
Excessive salivation in babies
Any parent of an infant is no stranger to drooling. Drooling is a common practice for infants during the developmental stage, when their needs are centered in the mouth—usually between 3 and 6 months of age.
From this point on, drooling is still fairly common in healthy children under 2 years of age. Saliva performs many necessary functions. It keeps the mouth moist, makes it easier to swallow and soothes the baby’s gums, for example during teething.
Sometimes your child may seem to be drooling too much. Clinically, excessive drooling is usually associated with low muscle tone, lack of sensation in the lips and face, and difficulty swallowing. Although some salivation is normal in children under 2 years of age, excessive salivation is also a commonly observed symptom in children with neurological disorders. It’s important to check with your doctor, as excessive salivation can potentially be a symptom of a more serious condition caused by a birth injury.
Is excessive salivation a sign of cerebral palsy?
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neurological disorders that affect the ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common movement disability in childhood. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain.
In the case of cerebral palsy, one of the affected muscle functions is the muscular control of the oral cavity, which means that a child with cerebral palsy drools almost constantly. Salivation is usually associated with the following reasons:
Swallowing violations
difficulty moving saliva to the back of the pharynx
Poor closing of the mouth
The inconsistency of the jaw
Slunum separation
Keep in mind that the uncontrolled salivation of the cerebral palsy is to be accepted. is a disease, you should first consider if it has any other symptoms. Children with cerebral palsy will also have writhing or spasmodic muscle movements, stiff muscles, instability in muscle tone, and developmental delay.
Is excessive salivation a sign of Bell’s palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a temporary nervous disorder characterized by paralysis of the facial nerve. It is caused by damage or trauma to the facial nerve. This nerve, which runs from the brainstem at the back of the skull to the face, controls the muscles on either side of the face that control blinking and facial expressions.
When Bell’s palsy occurs, the function of the facial nerve is impaired, disrupting the connection between the brain and the facial muscles. As a result, people with Bell’s palsy experience facial weakness or partial paralysis. Bell’s palsy occurs due to swelling and inflammation of the facial nerve, likely due to a viral infection.
If your child develops Bell’s palsy, he will have a droopy, dry eyelid on one side of his face in addition to excessive salivation. Luckily, Bell’s palsy is a temporary condition that can be treated with medication from your healthcare provider.
Is excessive salivation a sign of autism?
One of the symptoms that children diagnosed with autism commonly experience, in addition to developmental delay, is difficulty with muscle control and sensation. Because children with autism have a harder time controlling their facial muscles, drooling is a fairly common symptom.
For children diagnosed with autism, salivation treatment options should be tailored to the individual child. Discuss possible treatments with your child’s primary care physician. For example, a speech pathologist or occupational therapist who is experienced in oral sensitivity and muscle tone can potentially help. Rene Speyer et al., Developmental Medicine and Pediatric Neurology , 2019. A review designed to determine the prevalence of salivation, swallowing and feeding problems in people with cerebral palsy (CP) throughout their lives. Results from 42 studies showed that problems with salivation, swallowing and feeding is very common in people with CP. Thus, they experience an increased risk of malnutrition and dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and poor quality of life.
“Salivation in cerebral palsy and its relationship to dysphagia and gross motor function”, Lijiang Wang et al.
The baby drools and bites fists
Contents:
1 Causes of increased salivation
2 How to help the baby
3 When to see a doctor
After two months, the baby may notice a lot of saliva. In the future, salivation only increases, which causes discomfort to the crumbs. As a result, clothes and bedding get wet, irritation and inflammation begin on the chin. In addition, saliva falls not only on the chin, but also on the cheeks on the chest.
Therefore, irritation, dryness and inflammation can also occur in such places. Let’s see why the baby drools. We will learn what to do if a baby drools in bubbles or they flow very strongly, how to help the child and make the life of the crumbs more comfortable.
Causes of increased salivation
Teething is the main cause of this phenomenon. The first teeth begin to erupt after three or four, and in some babies even after two months. The teeth move in the gums and cause severe discomfort, while saliva softens this irritation and even relieves inflammation.
At this time, it is important to give your baby chews on special teething toys. Gel cooling teethers help well, which are put in the refrigerator for a while before use. Cold products will soothe the gums, relieve inflammation and itching, and reduce salivation.
In the first year of life, the salivary glands are still being formed, so the newborn may suffer from increased or profuse salivation. Saliva is secreted in large volume, and the baby simply cannot cope with swallowing. This is a temporary phenomenon that does not occur often and disappears with age.
More often you will see thick and viscous drool in the baby, which helps the baby to suck. Due to salivation, the baby is comfortable and easy to suck on his mother’s breast, to extract breast milk. In addition, copious drooling occurs when the baby constantly sucks his fingers, bites or chews on his fist, puts objects and toys in his mouth. What to do if the baby sucks his thumb, read here.
Saliva contains enzymes, antibacterial and antiviral substances. Therefore, it is important to protect the baby from various diseases, including stomatitis. The child’s immunity is just being formed, in addition, the baby loves to drag various dirty objects into his mouth. This increases the risk of infections, while saliva, in turn, performs a protective function and disinfects the baby’s mouth, skin and body. Thus, the oral cavity is washed and cleansed of harmful bacteria and microbes.
In each of the above cases, the copious formation and salivation of the baby gradually decreases and disappears after a year. However, there is a pathological disease that must be treated. In this case, increased salivation is called hypersalivation. It is the primary sign of any pathological disease. With hypersalivation, you need to urgently consult a doctor to establish an accurate diagnosis.
How to help a baby
A number of preventive measures can be taken to reduce skin irritation and skin inflammation, to make life more comfortable for a child with excessive salivation, which include the following:
Wipe saliva with hypoallergenic, sterile, natural, fragrance-free soft wipes. Throw away the tissue after each use;
Lightly pat rather than rub the skin on the chin. Friction will only exacerbate irritation;
Practice good hygiene for babies. Wipe the skin of the chin and chest several times with a soft sponge or towel moistened with warm boiled water;
To soften and moisturize the skin, use a special baby cream, milk or lotion. Carefully check the composition and expiration date of the product. It is important that the cream has a natural safe composition and is appropriate for the age of the child. Choose products containing vitamins A and E. They effectively soften the skin, restore and protect the skin;
To protect clothing, hang a special fabric bib or collar with a waterproof lining. They perfectly absorb moisture. Do not tighten the bib around the neck too tight!;
Place a folded diaper under your baby’s head to protect bedding in the crib. Such a diaper will quickly absorb excess saliva;
Lay the baby on the tummy. This procedure has a positive effect on the development of the child, prevents the deformation of the skull and the formation of an umbilical hernia, improves digestion and reduces salivation. In addition, it will help drain the saliva that usually accumulates in the mouth when lying down. It is possible to lay out a newborn on the stomach already in the first week of life;
Regularly change your bib, diaper or clothing as soon as they become very wet, with clean and dry items. Wash bedding and underwear, baby clothes separately from adult clothes and only with safe hypoallergenic products. Since such products are close to the baby’s skin and can easily provoke allergies, aggravate skin irritation on the chin, cheeks or chest;
Watch your baby’s teeth, give special teethers to reduce pain and inflammation. You can also lightly massage the gums with your finger using gentle circular motions. Remember that the finger must be clean!;
Use nipples occasionally as they help baby swallow saliva. But do not give the pacifier too often, otherwise the child will be difficult to wean from it.
As we mentioned earlier, copious amounts of saliva may appear if the child sucks, chews or bites on a fist or finger, this may indicate that the baby wants to eat or drink. In addition, such a process can also be caused due to teething. Do not try to wean the child from sucking, as this is an innate reflex that will eventually go away on its own.
Strict prohibitions or screams due to the fact that the baby sucks a finger or fist, can negatively affect the mental development and nervous state of the crumbs. In no case do not smear your hands with mustard, garlic, salt and other similar means! They can cause allergies and poisoning in a child, burn the oral cavity and esophagus. Show and pay more attention to the baby. Distract the baby from the bad habit with games, activities, exercises and gymnastics. Try to find out and eliminate the cause of this behavior.
When to see a doctor
Unfortunately, sometimes a child may experience hypersalivation. If you notice too much salivation, as well as blisters of saliva in the baby, contact your pediatrician! This can be a symptom of diseases such as stomatitis or candidiasis, middle ear or nervous system diseases, upper respiratory tract pathologies, hypersensitivity and allergies, digestive and endocrine system diseases, severe poisoning or gingivitis, severe stress and nervous tension in a child.
Associated symptoms such as white spots and sores on the mucous membrane in and around the mouth can be seen with stomatitis. Each disease causes severe discomfort in the baby. He will sleep badly and often cry, act up, eat poorly. The chair and work of digestion can be broken, temperature rises and puffiness is observed. The examination will help to identify the problem and eliminate the disease at an early stage.
The deviations listed above are rare. Basically, the increased compartment disappears as soon as the work of the salivary glands normalizes, the baby stops putting fingers, a fist or other objects into his mouth, or when most of the teeth erupt. As a rule, the volume of saliva is reduced by the age of one. However, for some children, this problem can torment up to two or three years. In this case, be sure to go to a neurologist.
If a child has a runny nose, then often on its background there is an increased secretion of saliva. The combination of profuse salivation and runny nose speaks of a cold, SARS, tonsillitis, allergies. In this case, be sure to consult a doctor so that he can diagnose and prescribe the right suitable treatment.
Be careful, because with a cold, the baby cannot breathe fully, and due to the accumulation of saliva, breathing through the mouth will be difficult. As a result, the child will not be able to breathe normally. How to treat a runny nose in a baby, read the link https://vskormi.ru/children/nasmork-u-grudnichka-chto-delat/.
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Children’s bruxism – causes and treatment of children’s bruxism
Children’s bruxism – involuntary grinding of teeth during a night’s sleep due to spasm of chewing muscles. This is a chronic disorder, muscle contraction occurs paroxysmal. The episode usually lasts no more than 10 seconds and may occur several times a night. Some researchers believe that it is not necessary to treat bruxism, as it will resolve on its own by 6–7 years of age. However, it is important to show the child to the dentist, since this violation can lead to certain unpleasant consequences for the dental system. In addition, the general health of the baby should be taken into account: in the presence of other neurological symptoms, somatic and systemic diseases, it is necessary to be regularly observed by specialists of a narrow profile.
Forms of the disease
Childhood bruxism can vary in duration and frequency of episodes. However, it is important to understand that these are exclusively nocturnal attacks of teeth grinding.
Do not confuse bruxism with bruxomania – clenching and grinding of teeth during the daytime, while awake. Such movements are usually voluntary and controllable, and in young children may be associated with a newfound interest in the capabilities of their body when new teeth are just erupting. Experts say that some babies are trying to cope with itching when teething milk teeth. It is worth showing the child to the doctor, but usually the violation is transient and does not require correction.
Causes of child bruxism
Masticatory muscle dysfunction can be an independent disease or a complication of diseases of the oral cavity, as well as other organs and systems of the child’s body. Often, children’s bruxism is accompanied by sleep disorders: apnea, snoring, somnambulism, nightmares, interrupted sleep, etc. The causes of muscle spasm can be psychological factors: stress, fear, increased anxiety, depression, etc. In some cases, the child is not aware of traumatic situations and is not shows anxiety, but he has an internal tension. This may be due to a change of residence, a conflict in the educational team, the birth of a brother or sister, the loss of a favorite toy or pet, etc. Even an excess of positive emotions can provoke sleep disorders.
Nervous system dysfunction can also lead to bruxism. The disease in some cases is accompanied by epileptic seizures, hand tremors, muscle tone disorders (not only in relation to masticatory muscles).
There is an assumption that nighttime teeth grinding is associated with helminthiasis. But it is not scientifically confirmed and explains the problem only indirectly: parasitosis is often accompanied by anemia, a lack of B vitamins, in connection with which the function of the nervous system and muscle tone change, respectively.
Some role in the development of bruxism is assigned to ENT pathologies: adenoiditis, deviated septum, chronic inflammatory diseases make nasal breathing difficult. Many researchers believe that this leads to a violation of the muscle tone of the facial, masticatory muscles.
Dental causes of bruxism in children include the following:
malocclusion;
Filling is too high: it does not allow the jaws to close normally, which leads to an incorrect load on the muscles;
diseases of periodontal tissues;
diseases of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
Signs of bruxism in children
Parents usually succeed in suspecting bruxism, since the child’s sleep is not interrupted during episodes of nightly grinding, he does not experience severe discomfort. After waking up, the baby may complain of pain in the muscles of the face, temporomandibular joint, headaches and dizziness, ringing in the ears. During the day, there may be lethargy and drowsiness, increased fatigue. As the disease develops, increased enamel abrasion and associated hyperesthesia can be added – sensitivity to food at different temperatures, as well as sour and sweet foods and drinks.
Complications of bruxism
Prolonged bruxism can cause the following complications:
enamel damage: cracks, destruction of the crown part of the teeth, chips and others, which is associated with inadequate loads on hard tissues;
tooth mobility, premature loss of milk teeth;
damage to gums and periodontal tissues;
violation of permanent occlusion associated with early loss of teeth, reduction in the height of crowns and other phenomena.
Prolonged bouts of bruxism are accompanied by apnea – short-term respiratory arrest. This can lead to oxygen starvation and associated unpleasant consequences for the entire body of the child.
Features of diagnosis
The very fact of night grinding is established by the doctor from the words of the child’s parents or close relatives, but it is important to confirm the diagnosis. The following methods are used for diagnostics:
polysomnography. The procedure involves fixing special sensors on the child’s body that record changes during sleep. Allows you to assess the functional state of the nervous system;
EEG. It makes it possible to assess the electrical activity of the brain, to identify epilepsy and other disorders;
electromyography. This method of assessing the function of masticatory muscles is based on the impact of current. The procedure is painless, allows you to determine the excess muscle tone;
Brux Checker. Special trays, made on the basis of a cast of the patient’s jaw, are installed overnight, after which the diagnostic plates are sent to the clinic for analysis. This method allows you to determine which teeth suffer from increased occlusal load, whether it occurs in general.
It is important to understand that these measures may not be enough to identify the true causes of the problem. In some cases, laboratory diagnostics is required: general blood tests, determination of hemoglobin levels, mineral content and other components. It may also be necessary to involve other specialists of a narrow profile: an otolaryngologist, a neurologist, a psychotherapist, a gastroenterologist.
Methods of treatment
Treatment of bruxism in children begins with the elimination of the causes that caused this disorder. Medical, physiotherapeutic, psychotherapeutic effects are used, and dental defects are corrected.
There is no specific drug therapy for bruxism, as it is not a disease but rather a symptom of some disorder. However, the doctor may prescribe drugs that correct the function of the masticatory muscles and normalize sleep. These include the following:
B vitamins,
magnesium and calcium preparations,
sleeping pills,
sedatives.
As methods that normalize sleep and muscle tone, warm compresses, coniferous baths, a course of general strengthening massage, and swimming can be prescribed if there are no contraindications.
Psychological correction has no contraindications and is used in many cases. If you suspect that episodes of disturbance were preceded by stress, you can contact a child psychologist. Lack of attention from loved ones, conflicts in the family or educational team, life changes, a state of loss – all these are reasons to visit a specialist. Various methods are used to treat children: art therapy, sand therapy, hippotherapy, dance and movement therapy, etc. In addition, a child psychologist will give recommendations on organizing a child’s leisure time, interacting with him and building relationships within the family, creating a calm and favorable atmosphere in home.
Dental therapies are designed not only to deal with the causes of bruxism, but also to eliminate its consequences. So, if there is malocclusion or crowding of teeth, premature loss of milk teeth, the doctor will offer the best solution. According to indications, caries and inflammatory diseases are treated, damaged teeth are restored with composite materials, in order to get rid of hypersensitivity – fluoridation and remineralizing therapy.
For the treatment of disorders in children over 10 years old, protective mouth guards can be used – devices made of soft material that are fixed on the teeth before bed at night and help protect the enamel from friction. You can buy ready-made mouthguards or order their production in a dental clinic. The second solution is more optimal, since it involves the preliminary taking of an impression and the manufacture of a structure exactly according to the parameters of the child’s dentition. Therefore, the mouthguards fit tighter, which means they protect the teeth more reliably. In addition, the doctor will tell you everything about the care of mouth guards and the timing of their replacement.
A pediatric orthodontist will tell you how to treat bruxism in children with malocclusion. As a correction method, he can offer plates, orthodontic mouth guards, wearing special devices or bracket systems – it all depends on the specific case, the type of bite defect, and the age of the child. Correcting the bite is easier when the jaws are still being formed.
General recommendations:
it is important to prevent emotional overexcitation in a child, including those associated with positive emotions. All active events should be planned for the first half of the day;
communicate and build trusting relationships with the child, maintain a healthy calm atmosphere in the family;
switch your child’s attention from computer games and watching cartoons in the evening to inactive leisure. It is better to devote 2-3 hours before bedtime to reading books, quiet games;
do not feed your baby 3 hours before bedtime. Do not overload the digestive system at night.
Prophylactic features
It is difficult to predict the appearance of bruxism, however, children with malocclusion, sleep disorders, and emotionally excitable babies are at risk.
In order to prevent this disorder in your child, you can take the following measures:
put the child to bed a little earlier: this will prevent possible sleep deprivation. Good sleep will help to cope with the psycho-emotional stress accumulated during the day;
Watch the child’s chewing muscles: his jaws should be relaxed if he does not speak, chew or swallow at this time. Pay attention to the baby if, during wakefulness, he excessively closes his jaw involuntarily or consciously;
provide good nutrition;
cure dental diseases in a timely manner, contact a pediatric otolaryngologist in the presence of ENT pathologies.
Bruxism in children of all ages is treated by pediatric dentists at the STOMA clinics. You can contact us for qualified assistance, which includes consultation, production of protective mouth guards, correction of malocclusion. We guarantee the high quality of dental services provided to young patients.
Stomatitis in a child – what is it? . Official site of KGAUZ “Norilsk GSP”
Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa. The name comes from the Latin word “stoma” (mouth). Stomatitis occurs in both children and adults, but most often it appears in infants and preschoolers. This is because the mucosa at this age is thinner and more tender. It is more common for everyone to say “stomatitis”, but it would be more correct to say “stomatitis”, since this is a generalizing concept for a whole group of diseases.
Causes of stomatitis in children
The causes of stomatitis in children are different. These are dirty hands, and fragile children’s immunity, and the features of thermoregulation, on which the respiratory system directly depends. You need to understand that the children’s mucosa, unlike the adult one, is a very thin and vulnerable substance, so the attachment of any infection occurs very quickly. At an early age, salivation is not yet fully formed in a child, and saliva enzymes play a very important role in protecting the body. As a result, the mucous membrane often dries up, cracks appear, an infection occurs, and stomatitis follows it. It is impossible not to take into account the long-term use of medications, such as antibiotics, as well as neuropsychiatric disorders, unfavorable living conditions, poor child care and inadequate oral hygiene by the parents themselves.
It is often the parents who help the doctor to find out the cause of the disease. Only they can try to analyze what caused the appearance of a bubble, sore or plaque. For example, the child ate something wrong, bought a new toothpaste or toothbrush, or maybe the baby suffered a temperature drop.
Depending on the causes of occurrence, stomatitis can be divided into several types, each of which has a number of features.
Viral, herpes, or herpetic stomatitis in children is one of the most common types of childhood stomatitis. Usually a child becomes infected with it by airborne droplets. The virus is also transmitted through dishes, toys, household items. Most often, herpetic stomatitis in a child appears at the age of one to 4 years. The disease begins as a cold and is accompanied by a rash on the lips, lethargy, and fever. Sometimes there is a runny nose and cough. Around the second day, aphthae appear on the lips, tongue, and inside of the cheeks – small round or oval sores of light yellow color with a bright red border. They exude an unpleasant odor, are easily torn off and then bleed. These ulcers are the main symptom of this type of stomatitis. Therefore, such stomatitis in children is also called aphthous, or ulcerative. This is a particularly unpleasant type of disease, as it can be severe and accompanied by severe intoxication. Viral stomatitis in children also often occurs against the background of other viral diseases, such as influenza, chickenpox or measles.
Infectious stomatitis occurs in children of both school and preschool age. Most often they occur with tonsillitis, sinusitis, pneumonia. The main symptom is a thick yellow crust on the lips. At the same time, the lips stick together, the mouth opens with difficulty. The temperature usually rises. Bacterial stomatitis in a child most often occurs due to weakened immunity in the autumn-winter period.
Traumatic stomatitis in a child is caused by mechanical injuries of the oral cavity. For example, burns from hot food, a too hard nipple, the habit of chewing on a pencil. Also, traumatic stomatitis often occurs in children with malocclusion due to frequent biting of the cheeks and tongue.
Candidal stomatitis occurs in children under one year old. The cause is Candida fungus. The milk left in the baby’s mouth after breastfeeding is an excellent breeding ground for them. Therefore, parents call candidal stomatitis in children thrush. The main symptom is the appearance of white plaque in the baby’s mouth. It is worth noting that this plaque should not be confused with the usual plaque after feeding. A cause for alarm is if the plaque does not go away, and the child refuses to eat.
Drug-induced or allergic stomatitis in children is caused by some type of allergy or drug reaction. In case of suspicion of this type of disease, the allergen should be identified and removed, otherwise there is a risk of getting unpleasant consequences, up to anaphylactic shock.
Symptoms of stomatitis in children
For all types of stomatitis, a common and defining symptom is inflammation of the oral mucosa and the appearance on any of its parts, such as the tongue, the inside of the lips, cheeks, throat of various formations in the form of sores, vesicles, characteristic plaque, vesicles (blistering rashes) and in cases of traumatic stomatitis – burns, bites, injuries. It is important to understand that stomatitis is not one acute or chronic disease with certain classic symptoms, each type has its own special cause, and they manifest themselves in the oral cavity in different ways, therefore, they need to be treated differently.
Treatment of stomatitis in children
There is no single algorithm for the treatment of stomatitis in children. Each case is individual in its own way. It often happens when a mother comes in the hope that the doctor will prescribe an ointment, and she will immediately cure her child with it. This does not happen! It is necessary to understand what preceded the inflammation, taking into account the age of the child, the stage and severity of the disease. Treatment is carried out both locally and symptomatically, i.e. symptoms are relieved. Doctors dentist-therapist and pediatrician give their recommendations, it is possible to involve highly specialized specialists, such as ENT, mycologist, dermatologist. Of course, there are some textbook principles that guide specialists in order to relieve or relieve pain or prevent complications. We are talking about compliance with the rules of oral hygiene, diet and sleep, treatment of the mucous membrane with special gels, solutions and applications. For example, with allergic stomatitis in children, antihistamines are recommended, with herpetic forms – antiviral, if there is a temperature – it is antipyretic. It is important that when you find a problem, contact a specialist without delay.
Caring for a child with stomatitis
Parental involvement in the treatment and proper care of the child are not only important – they are decisive. With stomatitis, it is necessary to strictly follow the treatment plan, which is often very laborious, so the result depends on parental care and control. The oral cavity is a kind of epicenter of pain, so it is not surprising that the child will be capricious a lot. Therefore, it is important for parents to stock up on patience and perseverance. Most moms and dads are concerned about how to feed a child with stomatitis. Firstly, it is necessary to consume only soft, warm (not hotter than 30 degrees) and mushy food, for example, in the form of mashed potatoes. The main thing is that the food is high-calorie and positive, because the child’s immunity is already weakened. After eating, it is imperative to rinse your mouth so as not to provoke the development of stomatitis and not to attach any additional infection. A diet for stomatitis in a child should be with the exclusion from the diet of spicy, sour, sweet foods and citrus fruits.
Children with stomatitis need to be anesthetized. It is carried out with the help of various medications in order to avoid refusal of food and deterioration of sleep. In addition, with stomatitis in children, proper treatment of the oral cavity is very important. How to handle and rinse the child’s mouth should be recommended by the doctor.
Prevention of stomatitis in children
If a person has had stomatitis at least once in his life, there will always be a risk of its recurrence, so prevention comes to the fore – in general, strengthening immunity in order to prevent the disease from returning. Both parents and children should follow simple rules of oral hygiene. Obligatory observation at the dentist 2 – 3 times a year, even eating the child does not bother anything. It is advisable, when choosing personal hygiene products, to be guided by the recommendations of your attending dentist. With the onset of recovery, after the end of the disease, it is necessary to replace personal hygiene items, such as a toothbrush, bottles, nipples, etc. Remember, the main thing is to eliminate the cause of stomatitis. Therefore, the child simply needs to be shown to the doctor. Only he can say how to treat children’s stomatitis. Self-medication can only aggravate the course of the disease and prolong the suffering of your baby.
My baby is 3 months old and drooling, what should I do? Why is the baby drooling?
Greetings, friends! Today’s article of mine again aims to reassure new parents who may be very nervous about the fact that their baby began to salivate a lot.
I understand that now your child’s clothes are getting wet because of saliva, a little irritation has gone down his face, he may start to get nervous and even cry about this. However, it’s okay, all parents go through this. Your child is completely healthy. Very rarely, saliva runs strongly as a result of a serious illness, in all the remaining 99 percent of cases this is a completely natural phenomenon, it’s just that some babies drool a little more than others.
Why is this happening. To find out the reasons, you must first understand the basic functions of saliva. What is it for.
Why is there so much saliva
Your newborn is growing, becoming big, reaching two or three months of age. At this stage of development, the salivary glands are formed and begin to work. Therefore, the appearance of profuse salivation is a normal phenomenon. In the same period, the baby becomes more active. The child explores and tastes everything that surrounds him. Therefore, the body produces a protective antibacterial environment ─ saliva, which washes away the dirt that enters the small mouth.
The newborn’s saliva has already appeared, but the baby still does not know how to swallow it, so streams flow down the chin. Parents are afraid of such profuse salivation. If the saliva is transparent, not foamy, not thick, not viscous, experienced mothers do not worry. Mothers know that this is the normal state of the baby at this age.
Abundant salivation in infants 2-3 months old is a common thing, because it is during this period that their salivary glands “turn on”
Causes of increased salivation
Teething is the main cause of this phenomenon. The first teeth begin to erupt after three or four, and in some babies even after two months. The teeth move in the gums and cause severe discomfort, while saliva softens this irritation and even relieves inflammation.
At this time, it is important to give your baby chews on special teething toys. Gel cooling teethers help well, which are put in the refrigerator for a while before use. Cold products will soothe the gums, relieve inflammation and itching, and reduce salivation.
In the first year of life, the salivary glands are still developing, so the newborn may suffer from increased or profuse salivation. Saliva is secreted in large volume, and the baby simply cannot cope with swallowing. This is a temporary phenomenon that does not occur often and disappears with age.
More often you will see thick and viscous saliva in the baby, which helps the baby to suckle. Due to salivation, the baby is comfortable and easy to suck on his mother’s breast, to extract breast milk. In addition, copious drooling occurs when the baby constantly sucks his fingers, bites or chews on his fist, puts objects and toys in his mouth. What to do if the baby sucks his thumb, read here.
Saliva contains enzymes, antibacterial and antiviral substances. Therefore, it is important to protect the baby from various diseases, including stomatitis. The child’s immunity is just being formed, in addition, the baby loves to drag various dirty objects into his mouth. This increases the risk of infections, while saliva, in turn, performs a protective function and disinfects the baby’s mouth, skin and body. Thus, the oral cavity is washed and cleansed of harmful bacteria and microbes.
In each of the above cases, the excessive formation and salivation of the baby gradually decreases and disappears after a year. However, there is a pathological disease that must be treated. In this case, increased salivation is called hypersalivation. It is the primary sign of any pathological disease. With hypersalivation, you need to urgently consult a doctor to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Saliva and its functions
Saliva is necessary for the body at any age. In the oral cavity under the tongue, on the inside of the cheeks, behind the lower teeth are the salivary glands. They work constantly, producing up to two liters of fluid per day in an adult.
Saliva takes care of maintaining the pH in the right state, prevents the formation of tartar and caries. Through saliva, harmful microorganisms are destroyed, thereby preventing an unpleasant odor in the mouth.
Saliva is involved in the processing and digestion of food. Salivary enzymes contribute to the breakdown and digestion of substances, the production of glucose from starch.
When to See a Doctor
Unfortunately, hypersalivation can sometimes occur in a child. If you notice too much salivation, as well as blisters of saliva in the baby, contact your pediatrician! This can be a symptom of diseases such as stomatitis or candidiasis, middle ear or nervous system diseases, upper respiratory tract pathologies, hypersensitivity and allergies, digestive and endocrine system diseases, severe poisoning or gingivitis, severe stress and nervous tension in a child.
With stomatitis, you may notice associated symptoms such as white spots and sores on the mucous membrane in the mouth and near the mouth. Each disease causes severe discomfort in the baby. He will sleep badly and often cry, act up, eat poorly. The chair and work of digestion can be broken, temperature rises and puffiness is observed. The examination will help to identify the problem and eliminate the disease at an early stage.
The deviations listed above are rare. Basically, the increased compartment disappears as soon as the work of the salivary glands normalizes, the baby stops putting fingers, a fist or other objects into his mouth, or when most of the teeth erupt. As a rule, the volume of saliva is reduced by the age of one. However, for some children, this problem can torment up to two or three years. In this case, be sure to go to a neurologist.
If a child has a runny nose, it is often associated with increased salivation. The combination of profuse salivation and runny nose speaks of a cold, SARS, tonsillitis, allergies. In this case, be sure to consult a doctor so that he can diagnose and prescribe the right suitable treatment.
Be careful, because with a cold, the baby cannot breathe fully, and due to the accumulation of saliva, breathing through the mouth will be difficult. As a result, the child will not be able to breathe normally. How to treat a runny nose in a baby, read the link.
How to help the baby
Parents will have to accept and survive the period of drooling of the little one. It is unpleasant for the baby to be slobbery himself, so parents especially diligently take care and care for the baby at this time.
Not in vain, apparently, even our great-grandmothers invented bibs for babies. Bibs will help even now: the fabric absorbs liquid, blouses remain dry, the skin on the neck and breast is also dry.
Sometimes a baby in the supine position lets out so much saliva that he chokes and simply chokes on it. He may cough, even wheeze. So that the child does not have trouble, put him on his side or on his tummy, you can put him on a low pillow. So, saliva will flow down and will not harm the baby.
Soon the teething time comes, the crumbs itch, the gums itch, he constantly gnaws something to relieve the itch. Help him, massage his gums with your finger. And in places where the first teeth appear, gently press. On the recommendation of a doctor, buy a special tool that lightly lubricates the gums with it, this will calm the baby.
A pacifier can help minimize the problem of salivation. If a child sucks on a pacifier, he will swallow saliva
Methods of treatment
If the trouble causing hypersalivation is pathological, then treatment must be carried out without fail in order to prevent exacerbation.
Folk remedies
Folk remedies should be an addition to medical methods. Small children can be helped by rinsing the mouth with decoctions of the following herbs:
nettle decoction;
sage infusion;
cabbage pickle.
Weed should be selected by your local pediatrician. You can also use infusions by adding them to a bath for bathing with warm water. Here, tinctures of nettle, black elderberry, calendula, St. John’s wort or chamomile are suitable.
Yes, there are traditional methods of dealing with these manifestations. They are especially effective if the cause of hypersalivation is problems with the oral cavity.
You can rinse your mouth with a decoction of chamomile or nettle. But this method should not be used as the main one. It is rather an adjuvant therapy that complements drug treatment. With serious problems, rinsing your mouth with herbs will not cope.
Also, do not forget that the use of folk remedies must be agreed with the attending physician. Many herbs are highly allergenic, therefore children are not allowed
.
Drugs
Therapy is carried out in two directions:
Therapy of the underlying pathology, which provoked a strong salivation.
Relief of the condition of the baby by reducing the pain effect.
If a month-old baby or an older baby is drooling, then drugs are prescribed that lower the function of the salivary glands.
Saliva is an indispensable helper of the baby in the fight against bacteria and viruses
However, they are prescribed in critical situations
, for example, if a newborn chokes at night, which can lead to death.
The very solution to the trouble depends on the cause of the appearance. In cases with colds and stomatitis, therapy will be prescribed by a pediatrician and dentist.
Basic treatments at home
At home, to alleviate the condition of the crumbs, you can do this:
Application of ice cubes to the lip contour. In the case of a newborn, ice should be wrapped in a tissue napkin.
Mouth rinse with herbs.
Babies 9-12 months old can be massaged and exercised.
Introducing solid foods into the diet will help develop the swallowing reflex. If the baby is too small, then a nibbler can be used.
Baby care
Abundant salivation requires increased care from parents. Mothers stock up on handkerchiefs or soft wipes to wipe their newborn’s mouth and chin.
Even when the chin is constantly wet, dripping saliva causes redness, peeling, rashes on the skin around the mouth and on the chin. Knowledgeable mothers advise using baby cream and lubricating irritated places several times a day until the skin is restored.
Your doctor will tell you which creams and ointments to relieve irritation on the child’s skin. It is necessary to lubricate the delicate skin with the prescribed means very carefully, in a thin layer, so as not to cause even more irritation.
Symptoms of pathological cough in infants
During the growth of teeth, the baby’s immunity is greatly reduced, so he can catch a bacterial or viral infection. Often, a virus or bacterium sits on the damaged mucosa of the trachea or larynx, which begin to multiply. This causes tracheitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis. If the infection goes down, bronchitis and pneumonia may develop.
Pneumonia in a baby under one year old is provoked by a bacterial or viral infection. It may be asymptomatic. On x-ray of the lungs, there may also be no lesions. This makes diagnosis very difficult.
If the cough persists for more than 3 days, you should immediately contact a pediatrician in order to promptly diagnose a respiratory disease and prevent complications.
Pneumonia is usually characterized by a wet cough. Sputum has a yellowish tint. The disease is accompanied by a temperature of up to 39 ° C. When prescribing an antibiotic, hyperthermia begins to fade in the first 2 days, the cough is slowly stopped.
Classical bronchitis in infancy occurs with cough. It can be dry or wet. At the initial stage of the disease, a dry cough prevails, gradually turning into a wet one. Inflammation of the bronchial tree is necessarily accompanied by an increase in temperature.
True hypersalivation
Physiological features of salivation involve the interaction of peripheral receptors and the brain: as soon as the oral cavity is filled with saliva, a command to swallow it comes through the motor pathways. In the event of a malfunction of the reflex sensorimotor arc, when sensitivity (hypoesthesia) is disturbed, the information flow does not enter the brain from the oral cavity. It is these violations that are the main reason why the child drools heavily, as the number of spontaneous swallowing during the day is reduced.
To eliminate this problem, it is necessary to create conditions under which the brain will receive more information that contributes to reflex swallowing: correction of the sensorimotor arc is necessary.
Western scientists consider cryotherapy to be an effective tool in solving this issue – holding an ice stick along the child’s tongue. Of course, a 100% result should not be expected, but in most cases, if not a complete stop of salivation, then a significant decrease is observed. This method requires patience and consistency from the parents, but it is less painful for the baby compared to dental correction surgery.
Incipient SARS
Sometimes excessive salivation, accompanied by regular attempts by the baby to put his fingers and fists in his mouth, indicates the onset of an infectious disease such as SARS, flu, tonsillitis, etc.
At first I thought it was dangerous, but as time went on I just let him be, because at first he wasn’t doing that. I think over time he will learn to stop himself.
Must look for a “CERTIFIED” Lactation Consultant” NOT just go to your local gp
Here’s what parents must know. 
As they grow, the muscles mature, and drooling stops before their second birthday. 
As they grow, the muscles mature, and drooling stops before their second birthday. 
If you have been feeding her spicy foods and acidic fruits like citrus fruits, cut back on them and observe any drooling changes. 
You might notice red rashes or bumps under the baby’s lower lip, the chin, and sometimes the neck.
She has been on writing on pregnancy, parenting, motherhood, and the realities of raising babies for the past four years. She’s worked with Woman Junction, BabyGaga, The Talko, The Things, as well as other sites. For inquiries, please email [email protected]
As our babies get a little bit older and have a couple of months under their belt we start to blame any disruption in sleep patterns, unexplained crying, fever, diarrhea, runny nose, etc., etc. on teething. Knowing what to expect when your child’s first teeth are erupting through their gums will help you understand what is going on and how best to make your baby feel better.
There is great variability in the timing of teething. If your child does not show any teeth until later in their first year, don’t worry. The timing is determined by heredity, and it does not mean that anything is wrong.
For a lot of babies teething is a painless process.
That is because teething stimulates saliva, so be prepared.
If you use a teething ring, chill it in the refrigerator, NOT the freezer. 
Remember not to put your baby to bed with a bottle because the milk or juice can pool in your baby’s mouth and cause tooth decay and plaque. 
Remember, regular childhood dental care helps set the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Some children get teeth sooner than that, and other children get their first tooth much later. Whatever their age when their first tooth appears, you can expect the first tooth to arrive will be one of the bottom front teeth. Once your baby has cut their bottom incisors, the next teeth to appear will be their four top teeth.
Molars tend to be painful because of the broad flat surface breaking through the gums. As with earlier teeth, managing the discomfort is key to getting your baby through this uncomfortable time.
Here are the main symptoms that have been proven:
Another example is meningitis.
An example is a raw carrot.
They are not approved by the FDA at any age.
Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC.
Most kids have all 20 of their primary teeth by their third birthday. (If your child’s teeth come in much slower than this, speak to your doctor.)
Don’t use them if your child has not yet started solids. And make sure to watch your baby to make sure that no pieces break off or pose a choking hazard.
The remaining primary teeth may then crowd together to attempt to fill in the gaps, which may cause the permanent teeth to come in crooked and out of place.
A good time to start flossing is when two teeth start to touch. Talk to your dentist for advice on flossing those tiny teeth. You also can get toddlers interested in the routine by letting them watch and imitate you as you brush and floss.
5 liters of saliva per day. Otherwise, certain disturbances in the functioning of vital systems may be accompanied by salivation – increased secretion of saliva, or in other words, hypersalivation. Also, excessive salivation in a child can be called ptyalism or sialorrhea. 
The formation of the first teeth begins deep in the gum. Overcoming the way up, they injure the gum tissue, which causes a lot of pain, which is why the child sucks his fist and always puts his fingers in his mouth. Saliva helps soften the gums, thus reducing the pain experienced by the child. 
Plus, a large amount of saliva secreted can provoke a cough in the crumbs. 
It also describes the measures that can be taken to somehow alleviate his condition: 
At home, you can rinse your mouth with a solution of soda 
When the functioning of the reflex sensorimotor arc is disturbed, as a result of a distortion of sensitivity, or in other words, with hypoesthesia, the flow of information from the oral cavity does not reach the brain. This leads to the fact that the number of involuntary swallows during the day decreases, which means that the amount of saliva increases. 
Cryotherapy does not work instantly, but requires endurance and perseverance, but it is less painful than surgery and dental correction. 
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It would seem that the first teeth in babies usually appear around 6 months, and there is still too much time before that. The baby’s gums are not swollen, and in general there are no signs of dentition in the mouth. However, teething can disturb a child from 2 months of age. At the same time, the baby will experience a lot of unpleasant sensations associated with their movement in the gums, and you will not notice anything for a long time, except for abundant saliva on his face. 
Of course, in this case, abundant saliva will not be the only sign of the disease, and an experienced doctor will be able to immediately determine that something is wrong with the child. 
It is another matter with babies: they have an involuntary flow of salivary fluid, and children cannot yet control this condition. Drooling usually continues until the baby is 18 to 24 months old. The process is very common during teething, so moms and dads should be prepared for the fact that the baby will have saliva everywhere: on clothes, things, toys. 
However, fine motor activities that require concentration can lead to involuntary saliva flow. 
Although the baby does not yet see teeth until 6-8 months, the process itself begins very early. That’s why around 3 months of age, a baby’s saliva is overproduced: the teeth begin to break through the gums. 
But when saliva is produced in too much quantity, it can cause concern for parents. 
What can this be about? 
Saliva helps keep your mouth healthy. 
Babies will use their hands to feel drool and cook raspberries to explore the sensations on their lips. 
But there is nothing to worry about, since salivation is part of his physical development. 
At different stages of life and as a child grows, there may be slight to excessive salivation. 
Saliva also helps bind food because of its smoothness, which makes it easier to swallow. 
However, it is not normal for them to drool when they are 2 years old. If your baby is drooling even after two years, don’t take it lightly. You should consult your doctor as this requires medical attention. If your child is drooling heavily, see a doctor immediately as it may affect his social life and his daily activities. If your baby has a lot of drool, the doctor will look for the following signs to come to a conclusion and suggest treatment for it. 
Talk to your child’s doctor – they may recommend therapy or medication. However, if therapy or medication fails to provide relief, you should consider a higher level of treatment. 
So when your baby is ready to start eating solid food, he will start to drool more! 
Drooling becomes a social stigma when it continues beyond infancy. It’s also unhygienic – an important issue since your son attends group activities such as preschool. 
