What Could Cause More Saliva on One Side of the Mouth?

Family Medicine, Primary Care Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD

More saliva on one side of the mouth can happen when one salivary gland is working differently or when the nerves and muscles on that side do not control saliva as well.

Explanation

There are a few reasons you might notice extra saliva on one side of your mouth. One possibility is that the salivary glands, like the parotid or submandibular glands, are not working the same on both sides. The gland on one side might be more active or inflamed, which can lead to producing more saliva. Another reason could be that the nerves and muscles, which help control swallowing and keep saliva in, might not work as well on one side. When these parts do not work in harmony, the saliva can pool on one side. Some medications and certain health conditions can affect saliva production in an uneven way too. Each part of your face plays a role in directing saliva normally, so if there is a small imbalance, you might see more liquid on one side. If this extra saliva causes discomfort or you are worried, it might help to speak with a healthcare provider to check if any treatment is needed.

(References)

Lakraj AA, Moghimi N, Jabbari B. Sialorrhea: anatomy, pathophysiology and treatment with emphasis on the role of botulinum toxins. Toxins (Basel). 2013 May 21;5(5):1010-31. doi: 10.3390/toxins5051010. PMID: 23698357; PMCID: PMC3709276.
Miranda-Rius J, Brunet-Llobet L, Lahor-Soler E, Farré M. Salivary Secretory Disorders, Inducing Drugs, and Clinical Management. Int J Med Sci. 2015 Sep 22;12(10):811-24. doi: 10.7150/ijms.12912. PMID: 26516310; PMCID: PMC4615242.
Iorgulescu G. Saliva between normal and pathological. Important factors in determining systemic and oral health. J Med Life. 2009 Jul-Sep;2(3):303-7. PMID: 20112475; PMCID: PMC5052503.

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