Is Excessive Drooling Normal for My 18-Month-Old Child? - Pediatrics

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Excessive drooling in an 18-month-old child can be a common concern for many parents. At this age, children are typically developing their oral motor skills, and drooling can be a normal part of this process. However, it is understandable to worry if your child seems to be drooling more than their peers.

Drooling in toddlers can occur for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is teething. Children often experience increased saliva production when they are teething, which can lead to drooling. This is particularly true for children who are still in the process of getting their molars, which can happen around this age. If your child is showing signs of teething, such as irritability, chewing on objects, or swollen gums, this could be a contributing factor to the drooling.

Another reason for excessive drooling could be related to oral motor development. At 18 months, children are still mastering the skills needed for effective chewing and swallowing. Some children may not yet have fully developed the ability to manage saliva, leading to drooling. This is usually a temporary phase, and as they grow and practice these skills, the drooling should decrease.

In some cases, excessive drooling can be associated with other underlying issues. For example, children with certain developmental delays or conditions affecting muscle tone may drool more than their peers. If your child is meeting other developmental milestones, such as walking, talking, and social interaction, it is likely that the drooling is not a cause for concern. However, if you notice other signs of developmental delays or if the drooling seems excessive and persistent, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician.

It's also important to consider the environment and habits. If your child is frequently in a position where they are lying down or leaning forward, this can contribute to drooling. Encouraging your child to sit up straight while playing or eating can help manage saliva better.

In terms of management, there are several strategies you can employ. Keeping a bib on your child can help manage the mess associated with drooling. Regularly wiping their mouth can also help prevent skin irritation. If your child is teething, offering cold teething toys can provide relief and may help reduce drooling.

If you are concerned about your child's drooling, it is always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician. They can assess your child's overall development and provide guidance tailored to your child's specific situation. In most cases, excessive drooling in toddlers is a normal part of development and will resolve as they grow older and their oral motor skills improve.
In summary, while excessive drooling can be concerning, it is often a normal part of development at 18 months. Factors such as teething and oral motor skill development play significant roles. Monitoring your child's overall development and consulting with a healthcare professional if you have concerns will help ensure that your child is on the right track.