My baby is one year old and he’s still drooling? What’s the reason?

Question

Accepted Answer

Drooling in a one-year-old can be quite common and is usually not a cause for concern. Here are some potential reasons why your baby may still be drooling:

Reasons for Drooling in a One-Year-Old

1. Teething: Many babies continue to drool as they go through teething. Even after the first few teeth have come in, new teeth may be pushing through the gums, leading to increased saliva production.

2. Oral Development: At this age, babies are still developing their oral muscles and coordination. They might drool more as they learn to manage their mouth and swallowing.

3. Exploration: Babies often put their hands or toys in their mouths as part of exploring their environment. This can lead to increased drooling.

4. Increased Saliva Production: Some children naturally produce more saliva than others. This can be a normal variation and may lessen over time.

5. Mouth Breathing: If your baby has nasal congestion or allergies, they may breathe through their mouth, leading to drooling.

6. Medical Conditions: In rare cases, drooling can be associated with certain medical conditions, such as neurological issues or oral motor difficulties. However, these are less common.

When to Seek Help

If the drooling is accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, or signs of dehydration, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician.

If there are concerns about developmental delays or other health issues, a pediatric evaluation may be beneficial.

Tips for Managing Drooling

Bibs: Use absorbent bibs to keep your baby’s clothes dry and comfortable.

Wipe Often: Gently wipe your baby's chin and mouth to prevent irritation from the drool.

Teething Toys: If teething is the cause, offer teething toys that are safe for chewing.

In most cases, drooling will decrease as your child grows and develops better control over their oral muscles. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it’s always best to consult your pediatrician for personalized advice.