Gleeking refers to the expulsion of a stream of saliva from under the tongue. This phenomenon can occur unexpectedly for many individuals. While often an involuntary action, some people can learn to control it and produce a salivary stream on command.
The Science Behind Gleeking
Gleeking originates from the submandibular salivary glands, located beneath the jaw and on the floor of the mouth. These glands produce a significant portion of saliva, aiding digestion and oral lubrication. Saliva from these glands is released into the mouth through ducts, with the primary one being Wharton’s duct. This duct opens onto the sublingual caruncle, located on either side of the lingual frenulum under the tongue.
Gleeking occurs when pressure is applied to these glands or their ducts. This compression can force accumulated saliva to eject rapidly as a stream. In involuntary gleeking, a narrow opening of Wharton’s duct can cause saliva to build up, leading to forceful release when sufficient pressure accumulates.
The mechanism is comparable to building air pressure behind a closed voicebox before a cough. Muscles in the base of the mouth, especially those involved in tongue movement, create this internal pressure. Their specific contractions squeeze the glands or ducts, propelling saliva outward.
Common Triggers for Gleeking
Many everyday actions can inadvertently trigger gleeking. Yawning is a frequent cause, as the wide opening of the mouth and the stretching of the jaw and tongue can apply pressure to the salivary glands. Other involuntary movements, such as talking, laughing, or certain eating motions, can also lead to an unexpected stream of saliva.
Beyond accidental occurrences, some individuals can learn to gleek on purpose. This often involves specific tongue and jaw manipulations to exert pressure on the submandibular glands. Techniques may include pressing the tongue firmly against the roof of the mouth, jutting the lower jaw forward, or using the tongue to create pressure under the chin. Prior saliva accumulation, often stimulated by yawning or consuming sour foods, can also facilitate voluntary gleeking.
The Prevalence of Gleeking
Gleeking is a relatively common human phenomenon, though not everyone experiences it or is aware of it. It is generally considered a normal and harmless bodily function. Reports suggest that approximately 35% of the population may experience accidental gleeking, while around 1% can perform it on command.
The ability to gleek varies significantly among individuals. Differences in the anatomy of salivary glands, such as the size of the duct opening, or variations in muscle control around the mouth and tongue, influence whether and how frequently someone gleeks. It is not typically a sign of an underlying medical condition. Instead, gleeking is often regarded as a byproduct of the mouth’s anatomy and muscle mechanics, rather than a specific evolved function.