9. Drooling: An Overflow of Discomfort
One may wonder, amidst the pain and the sores, why would a child with gingivostomatitis drool? Dive into the realms of this condition, and the answer unfolds. The sore-laden mouth, sensitive and raw, finds relief in not swallowing, leading to a gentle cascade of saliva outside.
Picture the scene: a child, usually meticulous, now has dribbles staining their favorite shirt. It’s not just about the wet patches; it’s about a loss of control. The body, reacting to the inflammation, produces extra saliva as a protective mechanism.
The function of saliva goes beyond aiding digestion. It’s the mouth’s natural cleanser, continuously working to keep the oral cavity sterile. But, when the regular act of swallowing turns painful, this overflow has but one way out. The droplets that escape are but a testament to the body’s struggle within. (9)
