Is It Normal for My Two-Month-Old Baby to Drool?

Drooling

Doctor: Hello, I have a two-month-old baby who is drooling.
Is this normal?

Xiao Yi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/16

Dr. Chen Rongtai reply Pediatrics

Hello, Ms.
Hsiao-Yi's mother.
In your letter, you mentioned that your baby has been drooling.
It's normal for the salivary glands in the oral cavity to continuously secrete saliva 24 hours a day, with less secretion during sleep and more during feeding.
Normally, adults will involuntarily swallow saliva at intervals, preventing it from spilling out of the mouth.
When there is excessive saliva production, or during oral inflammation or teething, it can exceed the swallowing capacity, leading to drooling.
Infants tend to have higher saliva production and require more frequent swallowing to keep saliva from flowing out.
Therefore, if there is even a slight pause in swallowing, saliva can easily spill out.
Generally speaking, as children grow older, as long as brain function is normal, this should not be a concern.

Reply Date: 2006/10/16

More Info

Drooling in infants, especially around the age of two months, is quite common and generally considered a normal developmental milestone. At this age, babies are beginning to explore their environment more actively, which includes putting their hands and other objects in their mouths. This oral exploration can stimulate the salivary glands, leading to increased drooling.
It's important to understand that drooling can be a sign of several developmental processes. For instance, as babies grow, they start to develop their oral motor skills, which are essential for feeding and later for speech. Drooling can also occur as a precursor to teething, although most babies begin teething around six months of age. However, some infants may start to drool earlier as their bodies prepare for the upcoming teething process.

In addition to being a normal part of development, drooling can also serve a functional purpose. It helps keep the mouth moist and aids in digestion, especially as babies transition from a liquid diet to solid foods. The saliva contains enzymes that begin the digestive process, making it an essential part of their growth and development.

While drooling is typically harmless, there are a few things to keep in mind. If your baby is drooling excessively and seems uncomfortable, it may be worth consulting a pediatrician. Excessive drooling can sometimes be associated with oral thrush or other oral infections, which may require medical attention. Additionally, if you notice other concerning symptoms, such as fever, rash, or changes in feeding habits, it's essential to seek medical advice.

To manage drooling, you can keep your baby comfortable by using soft bibs to absorb moisture and prevent skin irritation. Regularly wiping your baby's chin can also help keep the area dry and prevent rashes. If your baby is teething, offering teething toys can provide relief and help manage drooling.

In summary, drooling in a two-month-old baby is generally normal and part of their developmental process. It reflects their growing curiosity and engagement with their environment. However, if you have any concerns about the amount of drooling or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance. They can provide reassurance and help you determine if any further evaluation is needed.

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