What Causes Saliva to Build Up in the Corner of My Mouth?

Your mouth constantly produces saliva to help with digestion and keep the mouth healthy. Usually, you swallow often enough to clear it out. However, if you don’t swallow as much—for example, while talking, sleeping, or due to a neurological condition—the saliva can start to pool, especially in the corners of your mouth. In conditions like chronic neurological disorders, the muscles that help with swallowing might not work as well, which makes it harder to clear the saliva. This extra saliva can build up and sometimes lead to irritation or even angular cheilitis. Burning mouth syndrome can also be associated with changes in salivation, contributing to a build-up in the corners. When more saliva accumulates on one side, it might be due to uneven muscle control or reduced swallowing frequency, allowing that extra fluid to linger. If this is causing discomfort or other issues, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider who can determine if an underlying condition is affecting your saliva control and recommend treatment options to help manage the situation.