POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy10 months agoA. Excessive saliva or drooling in a 5-month-old baby is very common and usually normal. It is often a sign of healthy development. Here are the main reasons why your baby may be drooling more than usual:
1. Teething
Around this age, babies often begin teething, which stimulates more saliva production. Even if you don’t see teeth yet, the process may have started.
2. Developing Salivary Glands
Your baby’s salivary glands are becoming more active as part of their growth and digestive system preparation.
3. Mouth Exploration
Babies at this stage explore the world with their mouths. Saliva production increases as they suck on hands, toys, or other objects.
4. Immature Swallowing Reflex
Babies have not yet fully developed the ability to swallow saliva efficiently, leading to drooling.
5. Normal Developmental Milestone
Drooling peaks around 3-6 months as part of normal development. It can also aid in softening the gums for teeth to erupt.
When to Be Concerned
If your baby is excessively drooling along with other symptoms such as:
Fever
Rash around the mouth or neck
Difficulty swallowing
Signs of discomfort or irritability
It’s best to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues, such as an infection or an oral anomaly.
What You Can Do
Keep your baby’s chin and neck dry to prevent skin irritation.
Use soft bibs or wipe the drool gently with a soft cloth.
Offer teething toys if teething seems to be the cause.
In most cases, increased saliva is a harmless and temporary part of your baby’s development.
Post Answer