Yawning is something we all do every day, often without thinking. But have you ever yawned and suddenly noticed a spray of saliva shooting out of your mouth? It can be awkward, especially if it happens around others.
Many people have wondered why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn, and there’s a scientific explanation behind it.
According to the Journal of Neurology and Neurosurgery, yawning causes several things to happen inside the mouth and throat all at once. Muscles stretch, the tongue moves, and the mouth opens wide.
When these actions combine, they can cause saliva to spray, even if we don’t mean to do it. Let’s break down how this happens.
The Anatomy of a Yawn
According to Biobehavioral Reviews, when we yawn, our bodies go through a small chain reaction. The jaw opens wide, the tongue often presses against the roof of the mouth or curls slightly, and we take in a deep breath. All of this helps stretch the jaw muscles, increase oxygen intake, and cool the brain.
But here’s the key point: saliva naturally builds up inside the mouth, especially under the tongue and along the sides of the mouth.
During a yawn, the sudden movement of the tongue and mouth muscles can push this saliva forward. The force of the yawn may even squeeze the salivary glands slightly, causing a light spray.
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Tongue Movement Triggers Saliva Spray
Research in Forensic Science International has linked that the tongue plays a major role in why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn.
As it moves suddenly and powerfully during a yawn, it can scoop or push small amounts of saliva forward. If your mouth is fully open, that saliva can exit easily.
Imagine the tongue acting like a spoon, tossing out water. The movement is unintentional but strong enough to cause droplets to leave the mouth. The wider and more forceful the yawn, the more likely it is that saliva will spray.
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Salivary Glands and Pressure
One small 2023 study found that we have several salivary glands in our mouths, under the tongue, near the cheeks, and by the jaw.
These glands constantly produce saliva to keep the mouth moist and help with digestion. During a yawn, the muscles around these glands stretch and contract.
That change in pressure can gently squeeze saliva out of the glands. If your lips are open and your tongue moves forward at the same time, it’s easy for a small spray to occur. This is another reason why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn.
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Dry Mouth vs. Wet Mouth
Not everyone sprays saliva during yawns. Some people experience it more often, depending on how much saliva is in their mouth.
Researchers found that if your mouth is dry, the chances are lower. But if it’s wet, maybe after eating, drinking, or when you’re feeling sleepy, the chance of saliva spraying is much higher.
This is especially true early in the morning or late at night when the body is more relaxed and the salivary glands are more active.
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Yawning Angle and Force
The angle of your head and the force of your yawn also affect whether saliva sprays or not. If you tilt your head forward during a yawn, gravity may help move the saliva toward the front of your mouth. Add tongue pressure, and you have the perfect setup for a little spray.
So, why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn can come down to body position and the force of our yawn. It’s a natural accident, not something to be embarrassed about.
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Social Embarrassment and Hygiene
Even though it’s harmless, spraying saliva during a yawn can be embarrassing. In public or social settings, it may be viewed as poor hygiene, even though it’s unintentional.
This is why many people choose to cover their mouths when they yawn. Not only is it polite, but it also helps block any saliva droplets from spraying out.
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The Science Is Harmless but Real
There’s nothing wrong with spraying a little saliva while yawning. It’s just a mix of biology and movement. Understanding why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn helps us know it’s normal and avoid feeling awkward when it happens.
Everyone has different mouth shapes, saliva levels, and muscle movements, so some may spray more than others. It’s not a medical concern, just a quirky part of being human.
Did You Know? Yawning is also contagious. Seeing someone yawn or even thinking about yawning can trigger one in you, and that could bring a surprise saliva spray too!
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A Word from GetMe Treated
Yawning is a normal part of life, and so is a little saliva spray that might come with it. Now that you know why we accidentally spray saliva when we yawn, you can take small steps to manage it or just smile and know you’re not alone.
Let your next yawn be peaceful. and maybe a little more private!
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FAQs About Why We Accidentally Spray Saliva When We Yawn
Is spraying saliva during a yawn a health problem?
No, it’s completely normal and not a sign of any illness. It just means your mouth muscles and salivary glands are active.
Can I prevent saliva from spraying when I yawn?
Yes, try keeping your mouth more closed during yawns or gently covering it with your hand to stop saliva from escaping.
Why does it happen more in the morning?
In the morning, your salivary glands may be more active, and your muscles are more relaxed, which makes saliva spray more likely.
Do some people never spray saliva when yawning?
Yes, everyone’s body is different. Some produce more saliva or yawn with more force, making spray more common for them.
Is it rude to yawn without covering my mouth?
In many cultures, yes. It’s seen as polite to cover your mouth to avoid spreading saliva or appearing careless.
Can yawning spread germs through saliva?
Yes, if saliva sprays out and contains bacteria or viruses, it could potentially spread germs. That’s why covering your mouth is a good habit.