n. the secretion of saliva by the salivary glands of the mouth, increased in response to the chewing action of the jaws or to the thought, taste, smell, or sight of food. A small but regular flow of saliva is maintained to promote cleanliness in the mouth even when food is not being eaten. See also ptyalism.
The production of too much saliva. Excess salivation sometimes occurs during pregnancy. Other causes include mouth problems such as irritation of the mouth lining, gingivitis, or mouth ulcers; digestive tract disorders such as peptic ulcers and oesophagitis; and nervous system disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. In some cases, it may be reduced by anticholinergic drugs.... salivation, excessive
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