Clinical-therapeutic management of drooling: Review and update.

Drooling is the uncontrolled leakage of saliva outside the mouth, generally as a result of difficulty in swallowing the saliva produced. Many factors contribute to drooling, though it is more commonly seen in children with brain paralysis - particularly those receiving anticonvulsivant medication. Drooling is also often seen in patients with lip sealing problems or malocclusions such as anterior open bite. Clinically, the affected patients can develop skin irritation or abrasions, problems of hygiene, unpleasant smell and - in the more severe presentations - the need to wear protectors or frequently change clothing. Treatment of this disorder is complex, and should be addressed from a multi…