What Are the Common Causes of Excessive Saliva Production?

Your body naturally makes saliva to help you chew, swallow, and keep your mouth healthy, and sometimes it produces extra saliva in response to certain triggers. For example, you might produce more saliva when you see or smell food, which is a normal reaction. However, medications can also lead to more saliva by stimulating the salivary glands. In some cases, medical conditions that affect the nerves or muscles in your mouth and throat—such as certain neurological diseases or oropharyngeal and esophageal disorders—can slow down your swallowing, causing saliva to build up. The studies on salivation explain that changes in your body from illness or side effects of drugs, can lead to what we call sialorrhea, or excessive drooling. Additionally, issues with the glands themselves, like inflammation or infection, might change how much saliva is produced. If you notice this is a new or worsening problem, it could be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider so they can check for any underlying issues and offer ways to manage the extra saliva.