Saliva Management

Saliva: the stuff our mouth produces every day. We swallow it, slurp it, mix it with our food, speak with it and often don't even notice it's there! That's when saliva is doing its job.  

For some people, saliva production and management can be problematic. The impact of this problem, whether it's a dry mouth or drooling, can be greater than many realise.  

Issues related to saliva control are often not discussed by the wider community. The aim of these resources is to increase awareness of saliva production and control issues, and provide information on causes and available treatment.   

Saliva

• The Profile of Saliva - Saliva is made by salivary glands that are found in the underlying tissues of our mouths. Learn about these glands and how they make saliva. Where does saliva go, why is it important and what influences production?
• Saliva Facts and Figures - Most mature salivary glands produce about 600mls per day. Learn about the natural development of saliva control and the stages of development from the early stages of infancy to 2 years of age.  

Drooling

• Drooling - Drooling is a normal phenomenon in children prior to the development of oral muscular control at age 18-24 months. Learn more about drooling, the causes and social implications.
• Drooling disorders - Drooling is a common problem among some persons with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. Learn more about the disorders most commonly associated with drooling.
• Drooling Assessment and Management - Learn how to assess and manage drooling.
• Drooling Tips, Strategies, Resources - Despite all of the treatments available for drooling, it is at times inevitable that something immediate must be done to counteract the problem. Here are some practical tips for when and after a child or adult drools.

Dry Mouth

• Dry Mouth Syndrome - Dry mouth occurs when there is a problem with the salivary glands, resulting in decreased saliva production. Learn about the signs and symptoms of dry mouth and the causes.
• Treatment Of Dry Mouth - Read about the general behavioural or palliative treatments of dry mouth. 

Case Studies

• Drooling and Dry Mouth Case Studies - Read drooling and dry mouth scenarios and what can be done in each of the situations.

Research

• Drooling and Dry Mouth Research - Read examples of research completed and being undertaken on drooling and dry mouth.

Glossary

• As you read through any of the information, you can click on terms to read their definition in the Glossary.