Saliva is necessary for various functions including speech, eating and digestion. Drooling is the uncontrolled, flow of saliva from the mouth.
Drooling is a normal part of development in small children up to the age of 2, but persistent drooling over the age of 4 is not developmentally appropriate. Children generally learn to manage their own saliva over the age of 4.
Drooling is most commonly seen in children with cerebral palsy and neurological impairment but is noted in children with blocked noses, tonsillitis and allergies.
How can you minimize drooling-
See the appropriate doctor to get a medical opinion.
Ween off the bottle and encourage a sippy cup or drinking through a straw. This helps encourage lip closure.
Encourage your child to keep their head upright or tilted slightly backwards. This includes proper seating and posture.
Use verbal and tactile reminders. Pointing out the difference between "wet" and "dry" and what it feels like.
Use mirrors to help them understand.
Avoid sugary and sour foods as they increase saliva production.
Fiber rich and salty food reduces excess saliva and should be encouraged.
Comments