Abstract
Drooling is a substantial problem for children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities. Estimated prevalence rates vary between 10% (Ekedahl, 1974) and 37% (Van de Heyning et al., 1980) in children with cerebral palsy. Prevalence rates for those with intellectual disability and other neurological conditions are unknown. Drooling is normal in infancy and usually subsides around 18 months of age. Persistence beyond four years of age in the awake state is considered abnormal (Crysdale, 1989).
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Reddihough, D.S., Johnson, H. Assessment and Management of Saliva Control Problems in Children and Adults with Neurological Impairment. Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities 11, 17–24 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021804500520
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021804500520