Published on: 3/17/2025
A sudden increase in saliva can happen when your mouth makes extra saliva or you’re not swallowing as often, which can be caused by reasons like burning mouth syndrome, certain foods, or even changes in your body.
Your mouth makes saliva all the time to help with chewing and speaking. Usually, you swallow this saliva without noticing. But sometimes, your mouth might seem full of extra saliva. One reason this can happen is a condition called burning mouth syndrome, where the mouth feels sore or burning and the saliva may change in amount or thickness. Other times, when you eat or drink something very tasty or sour, your mouth might quickly produce more saliva than usual. Also, if you’re not swallowing as often—for example, if you’re talking a lot or if your swallowing reflex slows down—saliva can build up. Some changes in your body, such as stress or the effects of medication, can also change how much saliva is made. If you suddenly notice a lot more saliva than normal and it bothers you or causes discomfort, it might be a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider. They can help figure out why it’s happening and suggest ways to manage it.
(References)
Canfora F, Calabria E, Spagnuolo G, Coppola N, Armogida NG, Mazzaccara C, Solari D, D'Aniello L, Aria M, Pecoraro G, Mignogna MD, Leuci S, Adamo D. Salivary Complaints in Burning Mouth Syndrome: A Cross Sectional Study on 500 Patients. J Clin Med. 2023 Aug 26;12(17):5561. doi: 10.3390/jcm12175561. PMID: 37685630; PMCID: PMC10488611.
Alhajj M, Babos M. Physiology, Salivation. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Bozorgi C, Holleufer C, Wendin K. Saliva Secretion and Swallowing-The Impact of Different Types of Food and Drink on Subsequent Intake. Nutrients. 2020 Jan 19;12(1):256. doi: 10.3390/nu12010256. PMID: 31963804; PMCID: PMC7019672.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes, and the provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical practice. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.