Why Do I Drool in My Sleep? Your Dentist in State College Can Help

Waking up to drool on your pillow can be gross and embarrassing, especially if you don’t sleep alone. In some cases, solving this problem can be quite simple. However, sometimes it could be indicative of something more serious you need to have treated professionally. Regardless, your dentist in State College wanted to offer a few possibilities worth exploring to solve your unconscious drooling habit

Here are six possible reasons why it may be happening.

Reason #1: Your Sleeping Position

If you normally sleep on your side or your stomach, drool can easily slide out of your mouth and onto your pillow. It’s common for the mouth to open when it’s relaxed, so try sleeping on your back instead. This way, you’ll naturally swallow the saliva.

Reason #2: Allergies/Sinus Infection

Certain conditions like allergic rhinitis can cause the mouth to produce more saliva than normal. Also known as hay fever, this condition is usually accompanied by sneezing, runny nose, and red, watery, and itchy eyes.

Alternatively, sinus infections can cause the nose to become backed up, forcing you to breathe only through your mouth throughout the night. By treating your infection, you make it possible to breathe through your nose again.

Reason #3: Acidity or GERD

GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as acid reflux. Scientists believe that episodes of acid reflux cause gastric acid to stimulate and travel up the esophagus. As a result of the esophagosalivary reflex, excessive saliva production occurs. Acid reflux can also damage tooth enamel throughout the night and increase your chances of developing esophageal cancer, so speak with your State College dentist about it during your next visit.

Reason #4: Medications

Some medications may have side effects that include excessive drooling, including antidepressants, morphine and pilocarpine. If you take these medications or use these chemicals on a regular basis, ask your dentist if an alternative exists.

Reason #5: Nightmares

Drooling is actually quite a common symptom of people who have nightmares on a regular basis. If you notice that you’re under severe emotional stress, under the influence of sedatives or alcohol before bed, or sleep deprived, it may be the cause of your drooling. In other cases, people who sleep walk or talk in their sleep may also experience drooling.

Reason #6: Tonsillitis

This condition occurs when the tonsils become inflamed. These glands located at the back of the throat can swell and block the drainage of saliva, forcing it out of the mouth.

Looking for more possible causes or solutions to your drooling problem? Schedule an appointment with your dentist in State College to learn more!

About the Author

Dr. Robert Jeanmenne has been practicing dental sleep medicine since 2001, making him the perfect dentist to speak with about issues during sleep. Each of his team members are cross-trained and work together to bring patients the most effective and comprehensive care possible. To learn more about his practice, contact him through his website.