Dr Soo’s Tips: Is Your Baby Drooling or Dribbling?

Babies are known for their adorable smiles and, of course, their drooling! While it’s common for little ones to dribble as they grow, excessive drooling might leave parents wondering if it’s more than just teething. In this article, Dr. Soo shares expert insights on why babies drool, when it’s a cause for concern, and how to keep your baby comfortable and dry. Let’s dive into the world of baby dribbles! 💧👶

Why is my baby drooling?

Drooling is normal in infancy, especially around 5-6 months. It is often a normal part of their development. Here are some common causes:

1. Teething: When babies start teething, their salivary glands go into overdrive. The extra saliva helps soothe their gums and wash away germs.
2. Developing salivary glands: Newborns may drool more as their salivary glands mature.
3. Infant’s limited ability to swallow.
4. Lack of front teeth
5. The baby’s natural mouth position.
6. Possible infections: Excessive drooling can sometimes signal an infection, like a sore throat or mouth ulcer.

Drooling usually decreases and stops by age 2 as the baby’s oral motor skills improve. If your baby’s drooling seems excessive or is accompanied by other symptoms (fever, rash, irritability), it’s best to consult your pediatrician for advice. Otherwise, grab a bib, and enjoy this slobbery stage—it won’t last forever! 😊

Role of saliva

• softens and moistens foods once solids are part of your baby’s dies
• keeps your baby’s mouth moist
• makes it easier for your baby to swallow
• washes away food residues
• protects your baby’s teeth

Saliva contains ptyalin, a digestive enzyme that converts starch into sugar. It also acts as a natural antacid, neutralizing stomach acid to aid in digestion. Additionally, saliva helps protect against tooth decay.

When to be concerned?

• Delayed oral motor skills: If babies aren’t able to manage saliva by 12-18 months.
• Neurological conditions: Persistent drooling beyond the toddler years or accompanied by speech and motor delays might indicate neurological or muscular issues.
• Dental problems: In some cases, dental issues may contribute to excessive drooling.
• Unusual odor or discoloration in saliva: Foul-smelling saliva or visible pus could be a sign of an oral infection.

If you’re unsure or feel your baby’s drooling is excessive for their age and stage, consult a pediatrician for peace of mind. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

 

What’s a drool rash?

If your baby’s skin stays damp from drool for too long, it can lead to drool rashes. These rashes can cause the skin to become dry, chapped, and easily irritated. They typically appear on the face, neck, and chest, often in patches.

Here are some tips to help prevent drool rashes:

• Limit pacifier use: Extended pacifier use can result in increased drooling, which may cause rashes. Try to minimize pacifier time, and when it’s used, keep a soft washcloth nearby to gently wipe away any drool.
• Apply barrier creams or ointments: Use barrier protector products to create a protective layer on the skin and block excess moisture.
• Choose gentle products: Avoid harsh chemicals in laundry detergents, cleaning, and bath items. Opt for fragrance-free, mild options to keep your baby’s skin healthy.

How to manage drooling in babies?

• Wipe the drool regularly to prevent skin irritation. Use soft bibs to absorb saliva and change them regularly, most importantly avoid rubbing.
• Offer teething relief, such as teething toys or chilled (not frozen) items for your baby to chew on. You can also try to massage their gums to soothe discomfort.
• We are maintaining oral hygiene by gentle wiping of the gums and mouth.
• Apply a thin layer of baby-safe moisturizer around the mouth, chin, and neck to prevent drool rash.

 

References

Rimmon, D., & Dr. Marcy Borieux. (2024, October 30). Baby drool alert: Newborn and baby drooling. Summerhealth.com; Summer Health. https://www.summerhealth.com/blog/baby-drool-alert-newborn-and-baby-drooling‌

Drooling and Your Baby. (n.d.). HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Drooling-and-Your-Baby.aspx

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