Do you often wake with a drool-soaked pillow in the morning? Although it is common in babies, when it progresses into adulthood, it can leave you feeling a little concerned about the cause. While you may be a bit worried, it is not uncommon to be embarrassed about discussing the issue with your dentist in Allentown. You have nothing to fear. Your dentist can help to detect the cause to manage the problem. In fact, the solution may be simpler than you had expected.

Why Am I Drooling?

It is normal for everyone to drool from time to time. For some, it can occur more often than you would like. Often, it is the result of not swallowing enough while you are sleeping. This allows saliva to accumulate in the sides of your mouth. Eventually, it will seep out.

Drooling can occur for several reasons, such as snoring or mouth breathing while you sleep. No matter the cause, simple changes at home can help to decrease its occurrence.

How Can I Stop Drooling?

You cannot fully stop drooling, but there are many things you can try to help to reduce how often it occurs.

Change Your Position

Often, you will drool if you sleep on your stomach or your sides because gravity will naturally cause saliva to run out of your mouth. By sleeping on your back, you can help to ensure that you swallow more often to prevent it from running out of your mouth.

Control Your Allergies

Allergies are a common reason for drooling. It can cause the sinuses to become inflamed and mucus to build. This can make it difficult to breathe through your nose. As a result, you will often find yourself sleeping with your mouth open. By controlling your allergies and treating sinus problems, you can help to reduce mouth breathing.

Medications

If home remedies are not enough to stop drooling, there may be a larger issue at hand. Your Allentown dentist will help to find the cause. Depending on the severity of the issue, he may suggest the use of certain medications that are designed to reduce the problem. Scopolamine is one that is often used because it interrupts the nerve impulses to the salivary glands to decrease saliva production.

Botox injections have also been found to be effective because they paralyze the muscles in the area. This can prevent the salivary glands from functioning for up to 6 months.

Stop Your Drooling Today

If drooling has become a problem for you, there is no need to feel embarrassed. By mentioning it during your next preventive appointment, your dentist can help you find an effective solution, so you can sleep soundly.

About Dr. Bradford G. Young

Dr. Bradford G. Young provides exceptional dental care to his patients. He strives to create individualized solutions to promote the health of your teeth and gums while also improving your quality of life. If you suffer from excessive drooling, he can you find an effective treatment. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.