Drooling, also known as ptyalism, is a clinical condition characterized by an abnormal and excessive accumulation of saliva in the oral cavity , sometimes associated, to a real hypersecretion. The term comes from the Greek root "σάλιο" (saliva) and indicates the flow of saliva that accumulates in the oral cavity and often dripping from his lips.

Saliva is secreted by the major salivary glands (parotid two glands , two submandibular glands and two sublingual glands) and several smaller glands. 70 % of production is borne by the submandibular and sublingual gland. In case of necessity involved the parotid gland , which further increases the production of saliva , mainly as a result of a sensation of taste. The saliva contributes to the mechanical cleaning of the mouth , oral homeostasis , regulation of the oral pH. He also bacteriostatic and bactericidal function. It is important in the formation of the food bolus and the enzyme salivary amylase contained in it, begins the digestion of starch.

The excessive accumulation and leakage of saliva can give rise to a series of physical complications and psychosocial very limiting as cracking, fissures and perioral cracks which can over infect. It also tends to be associated with the bad smell that often leads to social stigma and rejection and its impact is often devastating for the patient and family members .